By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
Premier Alan Winde officially handed over the report containing the structural engineering findings from the independent investigation commissioned by the Western Cape Government, into the 6 May 2024 George building collapse to Western Cape Police Services.
Thirty-four people died and many others were injured when the building, still under construction, collapsed and buried most of the workers under the rubble.
Twenty-eight people were rescued alive but many suffered severe, lifechanging injuries.
In a statement issued by the office of the premier, Winde said it is entirely possible that criminal proceedings may ensue. “It is for this reason that the findings of the independent probe cannot be made public, so that we do not in any way compromise the SAPS investigation and further possible proceedings.”
Winde said at the same time that the multi-stakeholder operation was underway, the WCG secured the services of an independent structural engineering firm to conduct an investigation of the collapse site, simultaneous to the rescue operation.
“It is the full, final report of this firm, which was peer-reviewed, to ensure its integrity, that has now been handed over to SAPS,” Winde stated.
He said the findings that stem from the various agencies’ investigations must be consolidated to ensure an overall understanding of what transpired and to ensure that those responsible are held accountable.
“This probe is one of several that were launched, with the SAPS being the lead body responsible for investigating an incident of this nature. The report is now in the domain of the SAPS which must consider both the findings of this independent report and all other evidence in their possession as part of the overall criminal investigation to determine if charges are to be brought. The technical findings in the report are of such a nature that the Western Cape Government believes they will significantly assist the SAPS investigation.”
He also acknowledged the forethought and hard work of the staff in his government.
“Along with many other partners they worked tirelessly to rescue those trapped on the site and thought about the importance of commissioning this report to understand the causes of this collapse. I also want to thank the independent team which came on board for concluding this investigation carefully, and as speedily as possible. I appreciate the commitment that all of you have shown to get this done right.
“There must be consequences for those responsible for this horrific tragedy.
“We have now handed over the report to the SAPS, who we have been assured are working tirelessly on this case, and we will continue to monitor this matter very closely,” Winde said.