The City of Johannesburg Emergency Management Services (EMS) confirms that three patients who were unaccounted for yesterday evening have now been recovered.
Rescue teams will conduct a comprehensive sweep of the site to ensure that no one is left behind. A total of nine bodies have been recovered. Three surviving construction workers who sustained critical injuries were transported to hospital yesterday evening.
The building involved was constructed in clear violation of City of Johannesburg bylaws, as proper procedures were not followed. There is no record of approval from municipal authorities, and the building plans were never submitted for review or formally sanctioned.
The required permits were not obtained, and mandatory inspections were not conducted in accordance with local regulations. Consequently, the structure does not meet established city planning and building standards and is classified as an unlawful development under applicable bylaws.
City of Johannesburg Emergency Management Services urges all construction companies to strictly adhere to required procedures and regulatory processes for every building project to prevent such incidents and safeguard public safety.
The City of Johannesburg, EMS sends its heartfelt condolences to all the families of this tragic incident. The scene will now be handed over to South African Police Service (SAPS).
For further enquiries regarding building approvals and other due or mandatory processes, please contact: City Planning.
Issued by:
Xolile Khumalo
Media Liaison Officer
City of Johannesburg
Emergency Management Services
