New Order Investments responds to non-cooperation claims in Ormonde building collapse investigation

New Order Investments (Pty) Ltd, the developer of the building that collapsed on Monday in Ormonde, south of Johannesburg, has publicly refuted reports asserting the owners’ non-cooperation with the ongoing investigation.

The incident tragically resulted in the deaths of 12 workers, with some workers found trapped in the rubble, hours after the incident.

On Tuesday, Morero claimed that the owners were “at large”, noting that their cellphones have gone unanswered as emergency rescue operations unfolded on-site.

“We continue to trace — remember, all we have now is the name of the company. But we are still unable to reach the actual owners. We are doing so,” Morero had said.

In response, New Order Investments has stated that its top priority is to ensure the safety and welfare of all individuals involved and to extend support to grieving families.

In a statement released via their legal representative, Sinenhlanhla Mnguni, the developers affirmed their commitment to a thorough investigation into the factors leading to the collapse.

“New Order has appointed an independent professional team to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the cause of the collapse,” Mnguni said.

The expert team comprises structural engineers and health and safety practitioners tasked with assessing compliance with applicable building standards and determining necessary remedial steps. This initiative is intended to restore faith in the development process and ensure accountability, Mnguni explained.

Macpherson emphasised the importance of a thorough examination, stating: “We should never normalise the collapse of any building. Buildings are not meant to collapse, and therefore, there must have been serious failures that led to the tragedy we witnessed.”

He assured that once the investigation is completed, findings will be released to the public, reiterating a willingness to take action against anyone found complicit in the disaster.

“In the days ahead, the Council for the Built Environment (CBE) will also undertake its investigation, particularly focusing on potential professional negligence or breaches of mandatory standards.” 

Meanwhile, Morero has remained resolute, pledging to enact harsh penalties against those found guilty of negligence that led to such loss of life. This is after the city said the building was structurally unsound and was erected in an unsuitable location.

“We will undertake an immediate enforcement of development planning laws and regulations across all zones. There will also be zero tolerance for illegal or unapproved development, and developers will be held accountable. Furthermore, there will be strengthened controls, monitoring, and compliance checks embedded in every stage of the development process.”

In a statement of solidarity, Mnguni further stated: “We are cooperating fully with the relevant authorities and will continue to provide all required assistance to law enforcement and regulatory bodies in their respective investigations. We extend our deepest condolences to the families affected by this tragic incident. New Order is committed to providing appropriate support to the families of the deceased and to all those impacted.”

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