0
CHUKWUJEKWU ILOZUE, Awka
Fear has gripped residents of the Federal Polytechnic town of Oko, in Orumba North local government area of Anambra state following the collapse of a three-storey building on Sunday night,
The three-storey building known as Elite Five Star Lodge, is located beside Tonimas Filling Station, Amokpala, Oko, and the incident resulted in some occupants being trapped beneath the rubble.
A video clip of the scene showed residents of the area expressing bewilderment over the calamity.
The Anambra State Police-led joint security team has, however, got to the site and assuring to do their best in the situation.
In a statement the Police Public Relations officer Tochukwu Ikenga, a Superintendent of Police said that on receipt of the distress report, the Police, in collaboration with other security agencies, immediately mobilised to the scene, secured the area to prevent further danger, and coordinated rescue efforts.
The Anambra State Fire Service and the Anambra State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) also responded promptly and joined in the rescue operation.
Ikenga said rescue operations are ongoing to reach other persons who may still be trapped as the number of casualties or affected persons cannot yet be confirmed. Also, some injured victims have been rescued from the debris and evacuated to a hospital in Oko, where they are currently receiving medical attention.
He declined in giving figures of casualty. Instead, he urged members of the public especially residents in the area to remain calm, avoid spreading unverified information, and to stay away from the scene to allow emergency responders unrestricted access#
