The National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA) has confirmed the recovery of two bodies from the rubble of the collapsed three-storey building at Pentagon, Off Regent Road in Freetown, marking the end of a harrowing search and rescue operation.
At around 1:00 AM today, the bodies of contractor Mustapha Bunduka and one of his workers were pulled from beneath the debris after more than 24 hours trapped under concrete. Despite round-the-clock efforts by the NDMA, Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF), Sierra Leone Police (SLP), the Red Cross, and Freetown City Council (FCC), both victims were found lifeless.
Private sector support played a key role in the operation, with businessman Mohamed Gento Kamara, CEO of Gento Group of Companies, providing critical machinery and lighting to aid the overnight rescue.
Based on survivor accounts and eyewitness reports, the NDMA has declared that no other individuals are believed to be trapped and has formally concluded the search and rescue phase.
“We extend our deepest sympathies to the bereaved families,” said an NDMA spokesperson. “We are grateful to all agencies and individuals who worked tirelessly in this difficult operation.”
The cause of the collapse remains under investigation, as public attention now turns to the structural integrity and accountability behind the building’s failure. Authorities say updates will be provided as inquiries continue.
By Christine Bell
