PH Collapsed Building: Death Toll Rises To 15

Two more decomposing bodies trapped under the collapsed seven- storey building have been pulled out from the rubbles along Woji Road, GRA Phase 2 in Port Harcourt, the Rivers State capital, bringing the number of deaths so far to 15.
No fewer than 31 persons were rescued alive in the ill-fated incident which occurred on November 23, this year, even as the hopes of finding survivors presently is very slim.
According to Monday Kalio, coordinator of the volunteer works at the site, who confirmed the recovery, the decomposing body of a middle aged man had been deposited at a mortuary in Port Harcourt.
Kalio said, “We have recovered 41 bodies. 12 are dead and 31 are alive,” even as he asked that more hand gloves and nose masks should be provided for the rescuers.
Rescuers who have been having a hectic time searching for remains of victims complained that some of the equipment used for the rescue operation had gone bad, in addition to not having access to food and water which they said was hindering rescue efforts.
Chairman, Port Harcourt Division of the Nigerian Red Cross Society, Mr. Yibotemeka Kalio, told newsmen that rescuers had two more floors to crack in order to gain access to the underground parts of the failed building believed to be housing more trapped workers.
Kalio said, “The site has been divided into three. The first site we have cleared and we have done searches. On the second side they are cutting the iron rods. What we have left here now are two floors. That is why they (workers) are cutting the iron rods so that they can crack and we can go in and do our search and rescue.
Asked about the possibility of finding more victims alive, he retorted, “Honestly and sincerely we are still hopeful.