IT'S still unclear who started the deadly fire that claimed the lives of two family members.
The raging flames burnt down a two-roomed house and claimed the mum and son's lives, and then left the father with burn wounds.
Phumzile Malinga (28) and her son Bongakonke Malinga (2) burnt to death while visiting the son's father, Andile Buthelezi, who suffered burn wounds in the raging flames.
It's alleged that petrol was used in starting the fire in a two-roomed house in KwaPata, Pietermaritzburg, KZN on Sunday, 4 February.
According to a family member, they were told that petrol was splashed in the house, which led to the fire. The son, Bongakonke, was burnt to death while sleeping on the bed and his mum Phumzile, who was also severely burnt, managed to escape but died later at a clinic.
The dad, Andile, only suffered burn wounds and is currently in hospital. The raging flames completely destroyed the two-roomed house where they lived.
Phumzile's relatives said they were still shocked by the incident.
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She said they had heard different stories, which had left them confused as to which one they should believe.
"We heard that petrol was used after Phumzile and Andile allegedly argued," she said.
She said that her sister Phumzile and her partner Andile loved each other and were always seen together and happy.
"We were not aware of any problems that they were having. It is shocking, and we are looking for answers. Other people said this tragic incident is politically motivated because my sister was very vocal when it comes to politics, but we don't know," she said.
The KZN police spokesman, Colonel Robert Netshiunda, confirmed that Plessislaer police were investigating two counts of murder and arson following an incident that occurred at the Pata Location.
"It's reported that a two-year-old baby was burnt to death when the house was set alight. The mother sustained burn wounds all over her body and was rushed to hospital for medical attention, where she later succumbed to her injuries," Netshiunda said.
