Five years after a devastating chemical fire at its Durban facility, agrochemical company UPL and three of its directors are now facing criminal charges. The charges relate to alleged breaches of environmental and health regulations following the 2019 incident. Simultaneously, UPL is battling a separate R99-million civil claim filed by property groups based in Johannesburg. The claim seeks compensation for damages incurred as a result of the fire. The UPL inferno caused widespread concern regarding public health and environmental safety. Court proceedings are underway to determine the culpability of the company and its directors. This case highlights the potential consequences for corporations regarding environmental responsibility and regulatory compliance.