The Premier of KwaZulu-Natal, Honourable Thamsanqa Ntuli, accompanied by the MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Reverend Thulasizwe Buthelezi, today visited the scene of the tragic building collapse in Verulam, north of Durban.
During the visit, the Premier and MEC received a comprehensive briefing from the multi-disciplinary team leading the ongoing search and rescue operation.
The visit coincided with a significant development in the operation, with search and rescue crews successfully recovering a fifth body from the rubble earlier today.
Premier Ntuli took the opportunity to personally commend the teams on the ground for their determination and resilience under extremely challenging conditions.
“We are immensely proud of the dedication shown by our search and rescue teams,” said Premier Ntuli. “They have continued to work tirelessly, even in the face of difficult and extreme weather conditions. Their unwavering commitment to bringing closure to affected families is deeply appreciated.”
Premier Ntuli and MEC Buthelezi also met with some of the affected families to convey their condolences and offer support during this difficult period.
The Provincial Disaster Management Centre continues to coordinate the extensive response, with a range of technical and support teams deployed at the site. The operation is being led by the South African Police Service (SAPS) Search and Rescue Unit.
The active phase of the search and rescue operation will conclude once SAPS Search and Rescue teams confirm that the site has been fully cleared and that no further recoveries are possible.
Upon clearance, the site will be formally handed over to the Department of Employment and Labour (DEL) to commence a full investigation into the incident. The DEL has already issued a prohibition notice on 12 December 2025, instructing the property owner not to remove, alter, or enter the collapsed structure.
In addition, all state entities within the built environment sector have been directed to support the forthcoming investigations. This directive was issued by the Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure, Mr Dean Macpherson, following his visit to the site yesterday.
The KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government extends its deepest sympathies to the families who have lost loved ones and assures the public that every effort is being made to conclude the operation and establish the cause of this tragic incident.
ENDS