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Search and rescue teams retrieved the body of one person from a collapsed building site in George on Monday, while as many as 22 people who were reportedly injured were taken to various hospitals in the province.
“An inquest docket was opened after the body of a man was retrieved from the debris, said police spokesperson, Sergeant Chris Spies.
He said the search and rescue operation is ongoing with multi-disciplinary search and rescue teams having descended on the scene and their activities will be coordinated by EMS specialists from a joint operational centre.
The humanitarian organisation Gift of the Givers was also on hand to assist following the collapse of the five-storey building under construction. According to reports 47 people were trapped under the rubble.
George Municipality said the “collapse occurred just after 2 pm” with a construction crew of approximately 70 on the site.
Spokesperson, Chantelle Edwards, said in an early evening update that an additional 53 EMS personnel were on their way from the City of Cape Town and Worcester Disaster Services, while Western Cape Provincial Disaster Services will be on the scene soon to assist.
“Currently the rescue operation remains underway with over 80 rescue personnel on site.
“Family and friends of the construction workers involved in the incident are being given space to gather at the foyer of the main municipal building and will be assisted,” she said.
Meanwhile, Western Cape Premier, Alan Winde, said, “All the necessary support has been offered to emergency personnel to expedite their response.”
“At the moment, officials are focused on saving lives. This is our top priority at this stage,” he said.
This is a developing story.
(Pics: Supplied)
