Search-and-rescue operation called off

THE search-and-rescue operation at the collapsed Verulam temple site has concluded, with teams being stood down following an extensive project involving different teams since Friday's collapse.

- THOBEKA NGEMA

An extension under construction at the New Ahobilam Temple of Protection in Redcliffe, Verulam, collapsed with several people rescued, and five bodies were recovered over the weekend.

The temple, situated on the River Range Ranch, was built to resemble a cave.

Five people including temple founder Vick Panday, Vasudeva Datta Das, Kishore Hurribhujan, Jayseelan (Jayce) Perumal and Abdul Prabhus died in the collapse.

IPSS Search and Rescue spokesperson Samantha Meyrick said that after recovering the fifth body at the weekend, they started clearing the site as there was exposed rebar, metal strips and planting that posed a danger.

“Then we were able to bring in the canine dogs, who then searched the area, to locate any potential bodies on site. I know the dogs did indicate a certain area. We then cleared that out, and when the dogs went back in, they showed no indication of any more bodies,” explained Meyrick.