Authorities say 12 people are trapped inside the Pretoria Magistrate's Court after a fire broke out.

Rescue workers are still battling to free the people, who are believed to be awaiting trial prisoners.

It is understood the keys to the holding cells cannot be found.

Exhausted firefighters can barely see their hands due to the thick black smoke.

It is also understood that three of the firefighters were trapped inside the court house for a few minutes.

At least two of the people still inside the holding cells are minors.

Authorities say the fire broke out in a store room next to the holding cells.

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