Human Remains Discovered at George Building Collapse Site

Southern Cape police are conducting a forensic investigation after human remains were found at the site of the building collapse in George that resulted in 34 fatalities. A security guard discovered the remains on Friday, prompting further police investigation.

Photo by: SAPS

The tragic incident occurred over three weeks ago when a partially completed five-storey apartment block at 75 Victoria Street collapsed, claiming the lives of 34 workers. Despite the catastrophic collapse, all 62 workers present at the time were initially accounted for.

Police spokesperson Christopher Spies confirmed that the remains are yet to be identified and linked to any specific victim. "This discovery forms part of an ongoing police probe, an inquest docket is being investigated," said Spies. 

The site, marked by a large gaping hole where the building once stood, had been cleared following an exhaustive 11-day search and recovery operation. Disaster response teams concluded their efforts and turned the site over to police authorities for further examination.

Photo by: SAPS

Currently, at least four separate investigations are being conducted to determine the cause of the fatal collapse. The discovery of the remains adds a new dimension to the ongoing inquiry, raising questions about the thoroughness of the initial search and recovery operations.

Done by: Veerle Kroon