South Africa ends deadly building collapse rescue

Johannesburg: South Africa ended rescue efforts at the site of a deadly building collapse Friday, having revised down the number of people that were a...

Johannesburg: South Africa ended rescue efforts at the site of a deadly building collapse Friday, having revised down the number of people that were at the premises when the accident happened.

At least 33 people were killed when an under-construction five-storey building came crashing down in the southern town of George on May 6.

Another 29 were pulled alive from the rubble during search and rescue operations lasting 260 hours, the provincial government said.

"This has been an exceptionally difficult time for us all," said Western Cape premier Alan Winde, adding focus would now shift on the investigation.

"My heartfelt condolences go to the families of the 33 victims. We share your pain and will do everything we can to hold those responsible for this tragedy accountable."