The Director of the National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA), Retired Lieutenant General Brima Sesay, has revealed that the presence of two 20-foot containers of engine oil may have contributed to the recent collapse of a seven-story building on Shell New Road, Freetown. The containers, which were offloaded onto the top floor of the building, are now a critical factor in the ongoing investigation into the disaster.

Speaking during a press conference at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Relations (MFAIC), General Sesay explained that while no direct connection has been established between the containers and the building’s collapse, their presence on the top floor cannot be ignored. He highlighted that the timing and location of the offloading are significant in understanding the failure of the structure. “The engine oil was offloaded at the last floor of the building,” he emphasized.

Sesay further noted that the stability of the building was likely compromised by several factors, including poor construction practices and environmental conditions. He stated, “The presence of heavy materials like engine oil at the top of the building might have aggravated existing structural weaknesses.”

Tragically, the collapse resulted in the recovery of 24 individuals, 16 of whom were confirmed dead, including children under the age of five, teenagers, and adults. Five survivors were initially hospitalized at Rokupa Hospital, with three still receiving treatment at Choithram Hospital. The NDMA has assured the public that they are closely monitoring the health of survivors and providing updates on their progress.

The NDMA, in coordination with local authorities and engineering professionals, is conducting a thorough investigation into all potential causes of the collapse. In a statement, Melvin Lisk Esq., Deputy Mayor of Freetown, vowed to prioritize safety in the community, ensuring that preventive measures are put in place to avoid future incidents.

As investigations continue, the NDMA has urged residents to report any structural concerns in their buildings to prevent further tragedies.