Fire breaks out at Rhodes University

A fire broke out in a building at Rhodes University in Grahamstown, Eastern Cape on Tuesday (27/05/2014).

Spokesman Zamuxolo Matiwana said part of the Steve Biko student union building was set alight in the early hours of Tuesday.

"The damaged building has been cordoned off, and will be inspected by structural engineers," Matiwana said in a statement.

He said police were investigating the incident and the university would also conduct its own probe.

Police Captain Mali Govender confirmed that a case of arson was being investigated.

"The cause of the fire is unknown and will be determined after forensic experts conduct their investigation," said Govender.

"No arrests have been made."

No injuries were reported as the building was vacant when the blaze started.

The Oppidan Press, one of the university's publications, reported on its online website that the doors and glass of the building were damaged in the fire.

The interior was also damaged with several pool tables catching alight. - Sapa