59 still trapped following Indonesian school building collapse

Updated figures from disaster agency

“Data updated Wednesday at 11:00 pm (1600 GMT) indicates that 59 people are still trapped under the ruins,” said Abdul Muhari, spokesperson for the National Disaster and Mitigation Agency. He noted that the figure may change as some survivors have not yet reported themselves.

Collapse during afternoon prayers

The figure was derived from an attendance list issued by the multi-storey boarding school, which suddenly gave way on Monday while students were gathered for afternoon prayers. The tragedy has already claimed at least five lives.

Rescue efforts continue

On Wednesday, rescuers managed to pull five survivors from the debris, while distressed parents called for intensified efforts to locate dozens of children still believed to be trapped.

Possible cause of collapse

Investigations into the cause are underway, but early indications from experts suggest that poor construction standards may have contributed to the collapse.