Death Toll Rises To 32 As Building Under Construction Collapses, 20 Still Missing

• Authorities confirmed that the death toll of workers hit 32 as the operation to rescue 20 other people was ongoing
• The Neo Victoria Building in George City, South Africa, collapsed on May 6, trapping 81 construction workers
• The rescuers stated that the death toll could rise due to the increasing number of days since the accident occurred

Nancy Odindo, a journalist at TUKO.co.ke, brings more than three years of experience covering politics, news, and feature stories across digital and print media in Kenya.

The city of George grapples with mounting sorrow as the death toll among construction workers climbs to 32 following the collapse of the Neo Victoria building on Monday, May 6.

Within the wreckage of the unfinished five-storey structure, where 81 workers were initially trapped, over 600 emergency service personnel and other responders have been tirelessly engaged in search and rescue efforts.

How many people have been rescued?

Amidst the grim discovery of 32 bodies recovered from the debris and the rescue of 29 individuals with injuries, reports from SABC News indicate that 20 people remain unaccounted for.

Yet, as the search operation persists, apprehension looms over the possibility of further fatalities among the missing workers, amplifying the anguish gripping the city.

Miraculously, one survivor was pulled from the rubble after enduring 118 hours beneath the debris, offering a glimmer of hope to those engaged in the search.

Gambe confirms his safety after building collapse

Gabriel Gambe, aged 29, expressed profound gratitude for his rescue and extended heartfelt thanks to the team that orchestrated the mission.

After enduring five days without sustenance, he savoured his first meal upon being saved, and his condition remained stable.

From his hospital bed, he recorded a video to reassure concerned individuals of his safety.

Siaya boy dies after house collapses

Back home, a two-year-old boy from Siaya died after their house collapsed due to the ongoing heavy rains.

Confirming the incident, Siaya count police commander Cleti Kimaiyo said that the mud house's walls had soaked too much water leading to the collapse.

The deceased's mother and siblings survived the tragic night ordeal with injuries.

Proofreading by Nyambura Guthua, journalist and copy editor at TUKO.co.ke