Worker Freed from Collapsed Building in South Africa After Nearly Five Days

George, South Africa - In a dramatic rescue operation, a worker was saved from the wreckage of a collapsed building in George, South Africa, after being trapped for nearly five days.

The rescue of 33-year-old Gabriel Gambe, a tiler, brought a glimmer of hope amidst a tragic incident that claimed at least 14 lives and left 39 others unaccounted for.

The collapse occurred on Monday when a partially constructed apartment block unexpectedly fell, trapping workers under the debris. At the time of the collapse, 81 people were reported to be on the construction site.

Western Cape Premier Alan Winde referred to Saturday's rescue as the "miracle" the community and rescue teams had been hoping for.

The rescue efforts intensified after noises were detected from the rubble, leading to the discovery of Gambe alive but trapped. He was promptly given water and communicated with rescuers about his condition.

News24 reported that Gambe was visibly in distress but conscious when he was extracted from the debris and placed into an ambulance.

Speaking at the site, Premier Winde expressed profound gratitude and relief at the successful rescue operation, praising the dedication and relentless efforts of the rescue teams involved.

Colin Deiner, the head of disaster management for the province, mentioned that Gambe had reported feeling a "weight" on his legs, which raised concerns about potential injuries after such an extended period of entrapment.

Medical personnel, including two surgeons, were immediately brought to the scene to assess and address his medical needs.

This incident follows the rescue of another worker, 29-year-old Delvin Safels, who was pulled from the rubble on Wednesday. Safels had sent emotional voice notes to his family and girlfriend during his ordeal, expressing his love and fears.

The community remains hopeful as rescue operations continue, with teams working around the clock to locate and save any additional survivors from the tragic collapse.