The Head of the National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) Disaster Data, Information, and Communication Center, Abdul Muhari, said on Saturday that the identification process has been carried out in stages since the evacuation of victims began last week.
“Based on the identification results as of Friday, October 10, the DVI team had identified 50 bodies,” he stated.
He added that the DVI team is currently processing 11 other bodies, including five body parts recovered by the joint search and rescue (SAR) team at the scene. BNPB confirmed that all identified bodies have been handed over to their families for burial.
Meanwhile, several families of victims are still awaiting further identification results at Bhayangkara Hospital in Surabaya, where the process is taking place.
According to Muhari, as per the results of a coordination meeting led by Coordinating Minister for Human Development and Culture Pratikno, related ministries and institutions will assist in rehabilitation efforts.
Related news: Minister AHY urges strict building standards after Sidoarjo tragedy
These include conducting audits of building materials and designs and providing technical recommendations to ensure safety in future construction.
The prayer room on the third floor of the Al Khoziny Islamic Boarding School collapsed on September 29 while undergoing renovations.
Hundreds of students were praying in congregation at the time and were trapped under the rubble.
The East Java Regional Police have raised the status of the case from an inquiry to a full investigation.
Following the status upgrade, police will immediately summon several witnesses for further questioning.
Of the 17 witnesses previously questioned during the preliminary inquiry, some will be recalled for further examination based on their earlier statements.
Related news: Police to pursue legal action over Al Khoziny building collapse
Translator: Resinta Sulistiyandari
Editor: M Razi Rahman
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