Cape Town – Two people were killed and six injured in an explosion at the Astron Energy South Africa oil refinery in Milnerton in the early hours today, a SAPS Western Cape spokesperson said.
The explosion occurred at 4am and the fire has been contained. The cause of the explosion is still being investigated, SAPS posted on Twitter.
Earlier, Astron Energy South Africa said in a statement: “Astron Energy immediately activated its emergency response procedures and notified the relevant authorities.
“The resultant fire has been contained and the plant is now stable. A fire has been contained after an explosion at a Milnerton refinery earlier today.
“Astron Energy immediately activated its emergency response procedures and notified the relevant authorities. The resultant fire has been contained and the plant is now stable.
“Our priority is to ensure the safety of all those on site and further information will be provided as soon as we have confirmed the details.”
There have been unconfirmed reports of fatalities and the police and Astron Energy have yet to respond to a request for comment.
The Milnerton Neighbourhood Watch expects there to be fuel shortages due to the explosion.
“By now all have heard of the explosion that took place at the Caltex Refinery in Milnerton/Killarney. As a precautionary measure, we urge all to fill up with petrol as shortages are expected,” it posted on Facebook.
Any info on the explosion at the refinery in Milnerton? Photos received on social media… pic.twitter.com/R1u1Dw7Lln
— Merentia v d Vent (@Merentia) July 2, 2020
