VIDEO: One person confirmed dead in Mankweng building collapse
The Polokwane Municipality has launched urgent safety inspections across the city following a fatal building collapse in Mankweng.
POLOKWANE – The Polokwane Mayor, John Mpe, will visit the site of the collapsed Student Supamarket building at Mankweng Plaza, Zone 1, this morning following the tragic incident that claimed one life yesterday (October 22).
The collapse occurred when a wall of the Student Supamarket gave way, killing one woman and injuring another.
According to witnesses, two people were trapped after the structure fell.
@polokwanereview Review-Observer journalist Cecilia Mogashoa is on the scene where emergency services are responding to the collapse of a building in Mankweng. A fire and rescue services truck arrived to assist in search and recovery efforts for a body trapped under the rubble. Police have cordoned off the area as the investigation continues. #Polokwane #Limpopo #TrendingSA #Mankweng #ReviewOnline ♬ original sound – plkreview
Community members managed to rescue one of the trapped individuals, however, attempts to save the second were halted when shop owners allegedly prevented entry, accusing rescuers of attempting to loot goods from the premises.
Mpe conveyed his condolences to the bereaved family and those affected by the tragedy.
“We extend our deepest sympathies to the family of the deceased. This is a painful reminder of why we continue to place strong emphasis on building safety and compliance across our municipality,” he said.
Municipality launches compliance inspections
The municipal spokesperson, Thipa Selala, said the municipality has activated its building inspectorate team to assess the site and verify compliance against approved plans.
Following the incident, the municipality will roll out a broader compliance enforcement drive to ensure that all buildings within the Polokwane municipal area meet safety standards.
Selala added that the municipality has already issued compliance letters to several property owners to address identified structural and safety shortcomings.
“This forms part of the municipality’s proactive measures to protect the lives of residents, workers and visitors in all public and private facilities,” he said.
