Eight people, including three children, have been rescued from the rubble of a seven-storey apartment building in Maltepe, Istanbul, while rescue teams continue searching for six others, according to the latest statement from the Istanbul Governor’s Office.
The building’s three lower floors collapsed at around 5:40am today on Dogu Street in the Cevizli district for reasons that remain unknown. Rescue teams evacuated residents who had become trapped on the upper floors.
Risk of further collapse
Rescue operations are proceeding with particular caution because of the building’s instability. Authorities have also evacuated neighbouring buildings, Istanbul Governor Davut Gul said.
“The building is at risk. There is a possibility of collapse. The rescue efforts are being carried out in a controlled manner,” Gul said.
Regarding those taken to hospital, he added: “No one’s life is in danger.”
The Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD), firefighters, medical teams and police are operating at the scene. Environment and Urbanisation Minister Murat Kurum said rescue teams continue their efforts to locate those still trapped without interruption.
Prosecutors launch investigation
Authorities will investigate the cause of the collapse and the building’s permits as part of a judicial and administrative inquiry.
According to the Istanbul governor, the apartment building was constructed in 1987 and contains 12 flats. Official records list 33 residents.
The relevant prosecutor’s office has assigned a deputy chief prosecutor and two prosecutors to investigate the incident.
