In the wake of a sudden rainstorm on Sunday, what began as a day of worship at the Accra New Town Experimental Basic School turned into a desperate fight for survival.
An uncompleted multi-storey building, used by a Christian congregation, collapsed, leaving two dead and an unknown number of worshippers crying for help from beneath tons of concrete.
As night fell, the scene transformed into a hive of urgent activity. Floodlights cut through the darkness as personnel from the Police, NADMO, and the Fire Service worked alongside community members who had rushed to help in the immediate aftermath.
“We have rescued 14 people so far,” confirmed Michael Kpakpo Allotey, Chief Executive of the AMA, as he surveyed the site. “But we know there are more still inside.”
For residents, the initial moments were harrowing. Without waiting for official teams, neighbors used their bare hands and rudimentary tools to pull victims from the debris, their quick actions likely saving several lives before the professionals arrived.
Now, with specialized equipment in place, rescue teams have pledged to work through the night. The faint sounds of voices trapped in the wreckage continue to drive the operation, as families gather nearby, holding onto hope.
While authorities have promised an investigation into why a structure still under construction was being used for worship, the singular focus remains on the survivors waiting to be found beneath the rubble.