The death toll from a school collapse in Indonesia has risen to 10, according to rescue officials. The multi-storey boarding school in the town of Sidoarjo on Java island suddenly collapsed on Monday while students were gathering for afternoon prayers.
Rescue teams discovered five more victims on Friday, all of whom were pronounced dead. Officials now fear dozens remain trapped under the rubble without signs of life days after the disaster.
The search operation has been complex, with rescuers noting that vibrations in one area can affect the stability of the entire site. After the critical 72-hour “golden period” for survival ended, families of the missing agreed to allow the use of heavy equipment to clear debris. At least one crane has been deployed, with more expected to aid recovery efforts.
An earthquake that struck overnight Tuesday further complicated the rescue mission, temporarily halting the search. Investigators are examining the cause of the collapse, with initial reports pointing to possible substandard construction. Distraught families continue to wait anxiously near the site for news of their loved ones.
