By Foday Moriba Conteh
In the wake of the intense downpour that swept through Regent on July 21-22, 2024 a devastating building collapse has prompted an urgent response from the National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA). At around 11:30 PM on Sunday, NDMA was alerted to the collapse of a four-story building at No. 132 Haja Sonnie Drive, SS Camp IMATT.
NDMA officers swiftly mobilized to the scene, working alongside the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF), who arrived with an excavator to bolster rescue operations. They were supported by community volunteers, the Sierra Leone Police, the Sierra Leone Red Cross Society and the Office of National Security (ONS) in their efforts to locate and aid survivors.
Initial investigations revealed that the building, which had been abandoned and changed ownership multiple times in recent years, was in a state of disrepair. The structure had visible cracks and was considered highly hazardous. The current owner of the property, identified as Binta Barrie, had been living there with a caretaker family.
Tragically, 19-year-old Kadiatu Koroma, who was four months pregnant, lost her life in the collapse. Her body has been recovered from the debris. Rescuers have successfully extricated three male adults during the night and two more individuals this morning. All five survivors are receiving medical treatment. However, two children are still believed to be trapped under the rubble.
The NDMA is continuing to deploy additional resources to support ongoing search and rescue efforts. The focus remains on recovering the trapped individuals and providing necessary assistance to those who have been rescued. Updates will be provided as new information emerges.
Residents are urged to avoid the area to allow rescue teams to work unhindered.
