Firefighters, rescuers awarded for bravery during Batumi building collapse

Ten rescuers and fire-fighters have been awarded for their bravery during the tragic collapse of a residential building in the Georgian Black Sea town of Batumi on October 8 which killed nine. 

Firefighters have paid tribute to those who died during the tragic residential building collapse in Batumi. Photo: Interior Ministry/Facebook

Head of the Emergency Management Service of the Interior Ministry Teimuraz Mghebrishvili said the October 8 tragedy was ‘an important challenge’ for his service.

Each and every firefighter and a rescuer was involved in the search operation for 30 hours nonstop. Interior Minister [Vakhtang Gomelauri], who was there during those 30 hours ensured not only coordination, but encouraged the rescuers and firefighters”, Mghebrishvili said.

Firefighter Otar Kukhaleishvili extended the condolences to the families of the deceased on behalf of his entire team. Expressing his gratitude for the award, he said it was very difficult for everyone to face the tragedy. 

A total of 426 firefighters were involved in the 29-hour rescue operation in Batumi after the residential building collapse. Photo: Interior Ministry/Facebook

Three people, including the owner of the ground floor were detained for carrying out illegal construction works violating the rules of safety.