The investigation into the tragic George building collapse that claimed 34 lives has entered a crucial phase, as Western Cape Premier Alan Winde formally handed over the findings of an independent structural engineering probe to the South African Police Service (SAPS) this week.

The final report, commissioned by the Western Cape Government (WCG) and peer-reviewed to ensure its integrity, was presented to Western Cape Police Commissioner Lieutenant-General Thembisile Patekile and lead investigator Captain Johan de Lange.

This development is seen as a significant step in determining whether criminal charges will follow the fatal incident.

The building, which was still under construction when it collapsed on 6 May 2024, left 34 people dead and many others seriously injured. A multi-stakeholder disaster response operation rescued 28 survivors from the rubble.

Recognizing the gravity of the situation, the WCG promptly engaged an independent structural engineering firm to investigate the cause of the collapse alongside the rescue efforts.

The report, now in SAPS’ hands, forms part of a broader criminal investigation.

Authorities will evaluate its findings alongside other collected evidence to decide if criminal prosecutions should follow. Given the severity of the disaster, the possibility of legal proceedings remains high.

“The technical findings in the report are of such a nature that the Western Cape Government believes they will significantly assist the SAPS investigation,” Winde’s office said.

The document will not be shared with the public to avoid compromising the probe and any subsequent legal actions.

Premier Winde underscored the need for accountability, stating,

“There must be consequences for those responsible for this horrific tragedy. We have now handed over the report to SAPS, who we have been assured are working tirelessly on this case, and we will continue to monitor this matter very closely.”

He also reflected on the harrowing rescue efforts, particularly the moment survivor Gabriel Guambe was pulled from the wreckage after more than 100 hours.

“It is for him, for Delvin Safers, for their peers and friends who made it out alive, and for those who succumbed, as well as the families of the victims, that justice must be delivered,” Winde said.

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Should the investigation lead to court proceedings, Winde says the Western Cape Department of Police Oversight and Community Safety’s Court Watching Brief Unit will oversee the legal process to ensure justice is served.