Bank collapse claims four (4) lives

BALLITO – IPSS Search & Rescue and IPSS Medical responded to a construction site on Zen Drive following reports of a sand bank collapsing. On arrival, it was reported that 5 contractors were trapped beneath the sand.

With the quick arrival of the KDM Fire Department, rescuers quickly got to work in an attempt to find the missing contractors. However, the scene was soon declared unsafe, with the bank continuing to collapse around rescuers.

With the arrival of additional resources from CERT Emergency Response Tongaat, Durban Metro Police Search & Rescue, EMRS, Ethekweni Fire Department, SAPS Search & Rescue, and SAPS K9 Search & Rescue, teams were able to assess the scene.

A call was made to private individuals and companies, and the requested construction equipment, including a TLB, quickly arrived on site, allowing the recovery efforts to continue. Rescuers were able to locate the first 4 victims, who were sadly all declared deceased on scene. On discovery of the 5th victim, it was found that the man had miraculously survived almost 6 hours buried beneath the sand.

While under the care of IPSS Medical Advanced Life Support paramedics, the rescuers worked almost 3 hours to extricate the severely entrapped man, who was then transported to a suitable facility for further care.

We would also like to extend our thanks to all the private individuals, companies, ward councilors, CPF, and Ballito Neighbourhood Watch for arranging water, cool drinks, and food for all the members on the scene. Thank you to everyone who provided additional equipment such as generators and lighting which aided in the operation being able to proceed into the night.

A huge thank you to 007 Plant Hire for providing a TLB and operator who was key in the success of this operation and to local tow truck companies who assisted in the transport of rescue equipment. A special thank you to KDM Fire Department for their amazingly quick response and excellent service.