The Anambra State Police Command says a joint security team has launched a full-scale rescue operation following the collapse of a three-storey building in Oko, Orumba North Local Government Area of the state.
The building, identified as Elite Five Star Lodge, located beside Tonimas Filling Station in Amokpala, Oko, reportedly collapsed late on Sunday, July 26, trapping an unspecified number of occupants beneath the rubble.
In a statement issued on Monday, July 27, 2026, the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, said police operatives, in collaboration with other security and emergency agencies, responded immediately after receiving distress calls.
According to him, the area was swiftly secured to prevent further danger while coordinated rescue efforts commenced.
“On receipt of the distress report, the Police, in collaboration with other security agencies, immediately mobilised to the scene, secured the area to prevent further danger, and coordinated rescue efforts,” Ikenga said.
He disclosed that personnel of the Anambra State Fire Service and the Anambra State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) also joined the operation to assist in searching for survivors.
The police spokesman said emergency responders were still working to reach other persons believed to be trapped beneath the debris, noting that the number of casualties could not yet be confirmed.
“The Command notes that rescue operations are ongoing to reach other persons who may still be trapped as the number of casualties or affected persons cannot yet be confirmed,” he stated.
Ikenga, however, confirmed that some victims had already been pulled alive from the rubble and taken to a hospital in Oko for treatment.
“Some injured victims have been rescued from the debris and evacuated to a hospital in Oko, where they are currently receiving medical attention,” he added.
He appealed to residents and members of the public to remain calm, avoid spreading unverified information and stay away from the scene to enable emergency responders carry out rescue operations without obstruction.
“Members of the public, especially residents in the area, are urged to remain calm, avoid spreading unverified information, and stay away from the scene to allow emergency responders unrestricted access,” Ikenga said.
The police assured that further updates would be provided as more verified information emerges from the ongoing rescue operation.
