City of Johannesburg Manager Floyd Brink has revealed that preliminary investigations into the collapsed building in Ormonde show no approved building plans on record.

“Preliminary information at our disposal and in terms of our systems, we cannot seem to find any form of approved plans,” Brink said.

He further pointed out that the building was constructed near a large powerline pylon, indicating a servitude area.

According to city bylaws, construction should be at least 50 metres away from such infrastructure. Brink stated that, based on what is currently visible, both buildings on the site appear to be illegal.

@southern.courierCity of Johannesburg Manager Floyd Brink has revealed that preliminary investigations into the collapsed building in Ormonde show no approved building plans on record. “Preliminary information at our disposal and in terms of our systems, we cannot seem to find any form of approved plans,” Brink said. Full story on southerncourier.co.za♬ original sound – Southern Courier

City engineers and building control officials are on site assessing the structural integrity of the remaining structure.

15 people affected

Brink confirmed that approximately 15 people were affected when the building collapsed at around 14:00.

Six people were transported to Garden City Hospital and Milpark Hospital shortly after emergency services arrived.

Authorities have confirmed six fatalities. Three of the deceased have been retrieved, while three bodies remain under the rubble. A further three individuals are still unaccounted for.

The number of people on site was provided to emergency teams upon arrival.

Rescue and recovery remain priority

The City’s immediate focus remains on rescue and recovery operations. Brink said specialised equipment is being used to lift rubble, and JMPD dog units have been deployed to assist in locating those still missing.

@southern.courierRescue and recovery remain priority The City’s immediate focus remains on rescue and recovery operations. Brink said specialised equipment is being used to lift rubble, and JMPD dog units have been deployed to assist in locating those still missing. Full story on southerncourier.co.za

♬ original sound – Southern Courier

However, he cautioned that operations may be paused if the structure becomes too unsafe for rescuers.

“Our focus now today is really to focus on our rescue and our recovery,” he said.

Consequence management promised

Brink described the matter as one involving serious lawlessness, particularly given the loss of life. He said the City would act decisively if wrongdoing is uncovered, including against any officials found to be at fault.

@southern.courierConsequence management promised Brink described the matter as one involving serious lawlessness, particularly given the loss of life. He said the City would act decisively if wrongdoing is uncovered, including against any officials found to be at fault. Full story on southerncourier.co.za♬ original sound – Southern Courier

“If there is a structure of this nature that has come up without approved plans, there will definitely be consequences,” he said.

The company listed on record for the site is New Order NIV. Brink said the City is working to trace the contractor and engineers linked to the project in order to hold those responsible accountable.

He added that the City will provide further details once investigations are concluded.

Condolences to families

Brink extended condolences to the families of the deceased and confirmed that the City’s social development department would provide assistance where possible.

@southern.courierCondolences to families Brink extended condolences to the families of the deceased and confirmed that the City’s social development department would provide assistance where possible. At least one family has already been informed. Full story on southerncourier.co.za♬ original sound – Southern Courier

At least one family has already been informed.

He reiterated that once the cause of the collapse is fully determined, the City will brief the media with further findings.

WATCH: Death toll rises to 6 after Ormonde building collapse