Temple collapse: criminal investigation launched

A CRIMINAL investigation has been launched following the collapse of a multi-storey New Ahobilam Temple of Protection in Redcliffe, north of Durban.

- SUNDAY TRIBUNE REPORTER

Authorities are probing whether illegal construction practices, substandard materials, and the absence of approved building plans constitute criminal conduct.

Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Dean Macpherson revealed preliminary findings this week, based on an early report compiled by the Council for the Built Environment (CBE). The report points to serious construction failures, including friable concrete, poor workmanship, and indications that no approved building plans or permits were submitted to authorities.

"The structure, a reinforced concrete building still under construction, collapsed suddenly on Friday afternoon while work was under way on the upper floors," Macpherson said during a media briefing in Mayfair, Durban.

Preliminary evidence, including video footage, suggests a failure of formwork or shuttering during the pumping of wet concrete, which caused abnormal loads and a rapid, progressive collapse.