Ghana army says 50% of Melcom debris cleared

The rescue team at the disaster stricken site of Achimota Melcom Shopping Mall in Greater Accra, have so far cleared 50 per cent of the debris of the six-storey building that collapsed last Wednesday.

Colonel M’bawine Atintande, Head of Public Relations Directorate, Ghana Armed Forces,  who made this known  on Saturday said the efforts had made it possible for the team to identify a staircase which could lead to other parts of the building.

Briefing journalists in Accra he said the rescue mission had made slow progress because they did not want to do anything that could endanger the lives of those who might be still alive.

He said so far, 70 people have been rescued alive with 12 others confirmed dead adding that 52 of those who are alive had been treated and discharged from the various hospitals.

Earlier report that reached Ghana News Agency however said 78 people have been rescued.

He pledged the commitment of the team to work into the night to remove the debris and continue with the rescue mission.

Source: GNA