SAPS K9 capacity bolstered by additional resources from the Eastern Cape as search and rescue operation in George intensifies

Media Statement
South African Police Service
Office of the Provincial Commissioner Western Cape

GEORGE – Sniffer dogs and handlers from the Eastern Cape SAPS are enhancing the search for workers trapped underneath a building that collapsed in George on Monday afternoon. The multi-disciplinary search and rescue operation is underway at Victoria Street, George where a building under construction collapsed on Monday, 06 May 2024 at about 14:00.

Western Cape Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Thembisile Patekile and senior police management are on the scene to support and enhance the operational response. They were briefed by SAPS K9 search and rescue unit already deployed at the recovery operation.

Reports from the scene at this stage reveal that 36 victims were retrieved.  A total of seven victims sustained multiple injuries and were declared dead by medical personnel. All the other survivors retrieved were taken to nearby medical facilities for medical care.

George police opened an inquest docket.

Ends

Enquiries:
Sergeant Christopher Spies
082 559 4616

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