ACCIDENT SCEN: At least eight people have been injured when an 18-metre retaining wall collapsed onto congregants during a church gathering in eBuhleni Village, Inanda, Durban.

Initial reports indicate that approximately 20 congregants were in close proximity to the wall when it collapsed on Monday 13 July 2026 , trapping multiple people beneath the debris.

eThekwini Municipality’s emergency and rescue teams, working alongside the South African Police Service (SAPS)  and Rescue, the eThekwini Fire Department, and other emergency services, were on the scene to rescue those trapped under the rubble and soil.

Two people sustained critical injuries, while six suffered minor to moderate injuries.

Search and rescue operations remain ongoing amid concerns that additional congregants may still be trapped beneath the collapsed structure. 

Rescue teams are using specialised equipment and carefully coordinated excavation techniques to remove debris while searching for survivors.

The Municipality commended the swift response and professionalism of all emergency personnel who mobilised immediately after the incident was reported.