Baptism of fire for NW premier as hotel catches blaze

A fire has broken out at the Mmabatho Palms Hotel in Mahikeng in the North West. The blaze began in the early hours of this morning. Some people are still trapped in their rooms, but no fatalities have been reported. The cause of the fire is still not known. Mmabatho Palms is one of the oldest casino resorts in South Africa, built over 40 years ago. New North West Premier, Bushy Maape, was on the scene earlier, telling reporters the fire is a setback for the province’s tourism industry. Courtesy #DStv403