Search-and-rescue operation concludes at collapsed Verulam temple site
CRIME SCENE
Rescue workers at the site of the temple construction tragedy in Recliffe, Verulam. Authorities have called off the search-and-rescue operation as all the missing have been accounted for.
Image: COGTA Media
The search-and-rescue operation at the construction site of the New Ahobilam Temple of Protection in Redcliffe, Verulam, has officially concluded after extensive efforts to locate victims following its collapse on Friday. Emergency teams, which had been working tirelessly since the incident, stood down after recovering five bodies over the weekend, including that of the temple founder, Vick Panday, and four other individuals.
The temple, designed to resemble a cave and situated on the picturesque River Range Ranch, was under construction when the structure gave way, leaving numerous workers trapped beneath the rubble. Emergency responders were swift to mobilise, with KZN VIP Emergency Services among the first to arrive on the scene, working with various other agencies to tackle the complex and hazardous operation.
Samantha Meyrick, spokesperson for IPSS Search and Rescue, provided an update on the situation, detailing the meticulous efforts taken over the weekend. After the fifth body was recovered, rescue teams shifted focus to clearing the site of debris which posed additional risks, including exposed rebar and metal strips. "We brought in dogs to search the area again, and while they indicated a certain area, further checks showed no signs of additional bodies," Meyrick explained.
Mourners gather for the funeral service of New Ahobilam Temple of Protection founder Vick Panday (52) and Food For Love Africa cook Vasudeva Datta Das (65) at the River Range Ranch in Verulam.
Image: CHUMANI MAZWI
As the search concluded with no other missing persons reported, efforts transitioned to clearing the site and ensuring safety protocols were observed. "Only five people were reported missing, and those five people have been located," Meyrick confirmed. Responsibility for site management will now be handed over to municipal engineers for further investigation. The location remains a crime scene pending inquiries into the collapse.
“We are deeply saddened by the loss of life,” said Gareth Naidoo, spokesperson for KZN VIP Emergency Services. He praised the professionalism and dedication of all emergency teams and agencies involved. "This incident evolved into a complex operation with our teams working methodically under intense and emotionally charged conditions," he said. “Our condolences go out to the families and friends of the deceased, and we wish a full recovery to the injured."
In the coming days, Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Dean Macpherson is expected to share preliminary findings from an investigation led by the Council of the Built Environment (CBE). He will be joined by key officials, including other MECs and the eThekwini Municipality Mayor, to discuss the outcomes and next steps.
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