WATCH: Man accused of starting fire escapes angry mob after police intervene

UPDATE: 18:24

A man who is believed to have started the fire narrowly escaped with his life after police came to his rescue. It is alleged that the man started the fire after he had a fight with his girlfriend.

The man was then found by angry residents who wanted to stone him.  He is currently in police custody.

INITIAL STORY: 17:30PM

Shacks on London Road and 18th Avenue in Alexandra have gone up in flames this afternoon, 6 December.

Journalist Nduduzo Nxumalo is on the scene and said no deaths nor injuries have been reported as of yet.

Residents have alleged that the fire started after a fight broke out among community members, although this is yet to be confirmed.

Updates to follow as more information comes to light.