MANY people were feared dead when a two-storey plaza collapsed at Eke Amawbia market in Awka South local government area of Anambra State.

At press time, many people were still trapped under the rubble. An eyewitness said the two-storey building suddenly crumbled, burying many vegetable traders beneath the debris.

One person has been rescued and rushed to Amawbia Maternity Home for urgent medical attention, but many more are believed to be still trapped in the wreckage.

Security operatives have arrived at the scene to coordinate rescue efforts and maintain order.

Although professionals in the building industry have not reacted, traders who witnessed the collapse blamed the disaster on substandard engineering work, alleging that the building's structural integrity had been compromised.

Rescue operation is ongoing and search for likely dead bodies amidst the rubble.

The atmosphere at the market is tense, with onlookers anxiously waiting for news of loved ones feared trapped in the building.

The incident has sent shockwaves throughout the community, with many calling for an investigation into the cause of the collapse.

Authorities of Awka South local government area are yet to comment on the incident, but they have promised to release a statement soon.

As the rescue efforts continue, the death toll remains uncertain, but fears are mounting that the tragedy may have claimed multiple lives.

The Amawbia market, a bustling commercial hub, has been plunged into mourning, with traders and residents struggling to come to terms with the devastating loss.