Breaking News... A 7-storey building collapsed in Maltepe, Istanbul: It was announced that 3 floors were added illegally

The first 3 floors of a 7-storey building collapsed in the Maltepe district of Istanbul.

Following the incident that took place at around 05.40 in Cevizli District Doğu Street, search and rescue teams were dispatched to the area.

While efforts were initiated to save those trapped under the rubble, Istanbul Governor Davut Gül made a statement regarding the latest situation.

GOVERNOR GÜL: “5 PEOPLE WERE SAVED”

Istanbul Governor Davut Gül stated that 5 of the 12 people trapped in the building were rescued and said, "5 of the remaining 12 people were rescued. Contact was made with 4 of the 7 people. The search for 3 people is continuing."

It was reported that the teams are continuing their efforts to save the 4 people contacted and to find the 3 people who have not yet been reached.

THE MAYOR ANNOUNCED: 3 FLOORS WERE ADDED TO THE BUILDING

Maltepe Mayor Esin Köymen stated that the collapsed building was 39 years old and shared remarkable information about the project of the building.

Köymen said, "3 floors have been added to the building, normally the project of the building is 4 floors and there is a margin of wear and tear over time."

According to Köymen's statement, 3 more floors were later added to the building, which was designed as 4 floors.

SEARCH AND RESCUE EFFORTS CONTINUE

Search and rescue efforts initiated after the building collapse continue. Teams continue to work to reach people trapped in the debris.

The results of the investigation into the cause of the incident have not yet been announced.