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Fifth Body Recovered in KwaZulu-Natal Temple Collapse as Search Continues

Officials have launched an investigation, citing a lack of approved building plans.

Overview

  • Rescuers retrieved a fifth body from the collapsed four‑storey structure at the New Ahobilam Temple of Protection in Redcliffe after operations resumed following bad weather.
  • Search teams remain on site and authorities have not confirmed whether additional people are still trapped under the debris.
  • Reaction Unit South Africa said technicians used specialised equipment, including a rescue basket lowered into a cavity, to recover the latest victim.
  • eThekwini’s mayor appointed a multidisciplinary technical team to determine the cause, with a preliminary report expected this week, and police have opened an inquest.
  • Municipal officials say the project had no approved building plans, and one victim was identified in media reports as Vickey Jairaj Panday as national leaders urged against speculation.