Many feared dead, others trapped as 3 -storey students' hostel collapses in Anambra *Police, other agencies begin rescue operation

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By Madu Obi

An unspecified number of people were feared dead, while many others are allegedly still trapped after a three - storey students hostel collapsed at the polytechnic town of Oko, in Orumba North Local Government Area of Anambra State.

The building named Elite Five Star Lodge, is located beside Tonimas Filling Station in the Amokpala axis behind the Federal Polytechnic, Oko.

The cause of the collapse has not been ascertained, but several volunteers and operatives of the Anambra State Police Command are currently working to clear the debris so as to rescue those trapped under the rubble.

The victims are being deposited at the hospital mortuary, while the injured are being treated at the hospital.

The state Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, said that following a distress call after the incident, the operatives immediately mobilized personnel alongside other security agencies to the scene and secured the area to prevent further danger.

The Anambra State Fire Service and the Anambra State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), are also on ground to assist in the rescue efforts.

A statement by the PPRO said: "The Anambra State Police-led joint security team assures ongoing rescue operations following the late-night incident on Sunday 26th July 2026, involving the collapse of a three-storey building known as Elite Five Star Lodge, located beside Tonimas Filling Station, Amokpala, in Orumba North Local Government Area of the State. The incident resulted in some occupants being trapped beneath the rubble.

"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.

"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.

"Also, some injured victims have been rescued from the debris and evacuated to a hospital in Oko, where they are currently receiving medical attention".

The Police urged members of the public, especially residents in the area, to remain calm, avoid spreading unverified information, and stay away from the scene to allow emergency responders unrestricted access.