A man has died, and several people are believed to be trapped after a building under construction collapsed onto a temple in South Africa, authorities said on Friday.
The incident happened near Verulam, just north of Durban, prompting an urgent rescue operation.
Rescue Teams Searching for Survivors
Emergency workers rushed to the scene shortly after the multistorey structure came down. Officials have not confirmed how many people remain trapped, but early reports from a private emergency service suggested around six people could be beneath the rubble.
At least eight others were injured and taken to the hospital.
Prem Balram from Reaction Unit South Africa told public broadcaster SABC that some of those trapped had managed to contact relatives by mobile phone, helping rescuers understand where they might be located. It is still unclear whether the people inside were construction workers or temple worshippers.
Officials Say Structure Was Built Illegally
Local authorities say the collapsed building was an extension being added to the temple. The structure was believed to be three to four storeys high.
EThekwini Municipality said initial checks showed no approved building plans, indicating the extension was being put up illegally.
Investigation Under Way
The municipality confirmed “several injuries and entrapments” and said rescue teams were still working at the site late on Friday. Officials have opened an investigation to determine what caused the collapse and whether anyone should be held responsible.