By Ajibola Olaide, JKNewsMedia Reporter
EMERGENCY RESPONDERS have recovered the body of a female victim believed to be a student from the rubble of the collapsed three storey Elite Five-Star lodge in Amokpala, Oko, Orumba North Local Government Area of Anambra State, as search efforts continue for other occupants feared trapped beneath the debris.
JKNewsMedia.com also reports that rescue officials also confirmed that the body of a young man, also believed to be a student, had been located beneath the rubble but had yet to be retrieved as the search operation continued.
The building, which collapsed late on Sunday night, is believed to have housed several students and other occupants.
A combined rescue team comprising the Nigerian Red Cross Society (NRCS), National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Anambra State Emergency Management Agency (ASEMA), Anambra State Fire Service (ASFS), the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), other security agencies and operatives of the Operation Udo Ga Achi (OPUDA) security outfit has remained at the scene.
The emergency workers disclosed that they are using heavy duty excavators and other rescue equipment to remove debris carefully in a coordinated effort to locate anyone who may still be trapped while ensuring the safety of rescue personnel.
However, the atmosphere at the scene remains tense as residents, students and sympathisers watch the operation with growing concern.
Meanwhile, security personnel have cordoned off the area to prevent interference and ensure emergency rescue teams have unrestricted access while officials continue to account for all occupants of the collapsed structure.
Speaking to the media, Acting Executive Secretary of the Anambra State Emergency Management Agency, Mrs. Ndidi Omega, confirmed the death of the female victim and said the body of the young man remained trapped beneath the rubble. She also said three injured persons had earlier been taken to hospital.
Omega said the rescue operation would continue until every section of the debris had been thoroughly searched.
Further on the incident, Police authorities appealed to residents to remain calm, avoid spreading unverified information and allow emergency teams to carry out their work without obstruction.
Police also assured that further verified updates would be provided as more information becomes available.
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