Gas explosion triggers mass evacuation of SAPS trainees in Pretoria

More than 2 500 police trainees were evacuated after a gas explosion near SAPS Tshwane Training Academy this afternoon.

At the time of publishing, police spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe said various experts were on site to contain the fire at the adjacent business site.

Motorists were advised to avoid the area, with Rebecca Street closed between Charlotte Maxeke and Carl Street in Pretoria West.

The Tshwane Metro Police Department said all emergency service departments were on the scene.

“Be cautious and use alternative routes around that area.”

Mathe said the national commissioner of SAPS, General Fannie Masemola, ordered the mass evacuation following a gas pipeline explosion at an adjacent business site near the SAPS Tshwane Training Academy in Pretoria West.

“The decision to evacuate the trainees, SAPS trainers and members from various specialised units, including the Natjoints Coordination Centre, was taken following advice and consultation from experts.

“It should be noted that the training academy is not affected and that the evacuation process is a precautionary measure by management.”

Mathe said a venue operational centre comprising various experts had been established under the command of the deputy national commissioner for policing, Lieutenant General Tebello Mosikili.

Masemola said the safety of police trainees and members remain a priority, and this evacuation is a precautionary measure to preserve members’ lives.

“The national commissioner assures the public of the safety of police trainees and those working at the training academy and various units.”