George building collapse death toll rises to 32
The death toll from the collapsed building in George in the Western Cape has risen to 32 by Tuesday morning.
It is now more than a week since the partially built, multi-storey building collapsed in Victoria STreet in George
Twenty people are still unaccounted for.
A total of 61 of the 81 workers said to have been on the site, have so far been extracted from under the tons of cement and rubble.
Western Cape Premier Alan Winde confirmed on Tuesday morning that 12 people are currently in hospital.
He adds the primary focus continues to be on rescue efforts.
"With this in mind, we are also proactively setting up plans to expedite the identification of the deceased.
"This is done by the Forensic Pathology Service (FPS) and the South African Police Service (SAPS).
"We, therefore, endeavour to fast-track the process to help bring closure to families.
"Fingerprints, DNA testing and photographs of unique markings such as tattoos and clothing items are some of the methods used to identify the deceased.
"Forensic Pathology Services are not limited to the Victoria Street Disaster in George, but also include other cases that happen daily," he said.
Winde also confirmed that six of the deceased have been positively identified.
Winde says officials have had difficulties in obtaining accurate names of individuals who are missing or deceased.
"We urgently request families who have lost contact with their loved ones to come to the George Civic Centre on York Street.
"This will enable the Department of Social Development to collect detailed and precise information, ensuring that all records are accurately documented," says Winde.
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