Sema Fonkem 02 Feb 2026

Six people have been reported dead while two remain trapped after a building collapsed in Ormonde, south of the city of Johannesburg.

Rescue team from Johannesburg Emergency Management services is currently at the scene combing through the caved-in building to look for the missing persons.

The deadly collapse affected about 15 people. Six died at the scene of the incident which occurred around 2pm today. Seven others have been rushed to the hospital for medical attention while two remain under the rubble.

City of Johannesburg Public safety says preliminary investigations indicate that there is no available approved plans or Skills Development Facilitator  (SDF) for the construction site. Engineers and building control officials from the department will continue looking at the structural integrity of the building.

According to the City of Johannesburg, the two buildings on the construction site do not meet the 15-metre pillars requirement for structural stability and as per regulation by South African National Standards (SANS) 10400, this makes the activity of the contractor illegal.

City of Johannesburg Public safety says after investigations are done on the integrity of the building, justice will be served.

Family members of the deceased and victims will be informed after the legal identification process has been completed.

In July 2025, a five-storey building collapsed in George, Western Cape province, killing 34 construction workers and injuring dozens. South African Police Service (SAPS) has completed investigation and the case is now with the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) to reach a final decision. In May 2024, safety concerns were reported after defects were detected but no action was taken and work continued on the site.

The Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI) frowns on lawlessness in the South African construction industry and continues to probe corruption within the institution.