Redcliffe structure collapse | Fourth body pulled from rubble
Rescue turns recovery: Verulam building collapse puts State in the spotlight.
Image: Leon Lestrade
KwaZulu-Natal authorities have confirmed that the fourth body has been pulled from the wreckage following a building collapse in Verulam.
Verulam disaster triggers demands for accountability.
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However, efforts to locate remaining victims continued despite worsening weather conditions that have hampered access to the site.
Buthelezi said government remained committed to accounting for every person affected by the collapse, adding that additional capacity had been deployed to strengthen the operation.
Government faces pressure as Verulam death toll mounts.
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Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Reverend Thulasizwe Buthelezi, said disaster management teams will not rest until all individuals are recovered.
"We appreciate the additional support from the Western Cape’s specialised K9 unit, which strengthens our search capacity," he said.
The MEC was accompanied by Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure Dean Macpherson, KwaZulu-Natal Public Works MEC Martin Meyer and eThekwini Mayor Cyril Xaba.
The delegation collectively commended emergency personnel for continuing operations under hazardous conditions.
Death beneath the debris: Verulam collapse raises alarming questions about building safety.
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Macpherson said national government stood firmly behind the teams on the ground.
"We extend our full support to disaster-management teams and emergency services as they continue with the extremely difficult and dangerous work of reaching those still trapped.
"We are grateful for the tireless efforts of all agencies on site who are working under challenging and high-risk conditions," he said.
Four bodies recovered as Verulam tragedy deepens under relentless rain.
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Officials said search and rescue operations would continue as conditions allow, with disaster management teams remaining on high alert while heavy rainfall persists.
Government has assured affected families that psychosocial and logistical support will be provided throughout the recovery phase.
Lives lost, answers pending after deadly Verulam building failure.
Image: Leon Lestrade