South African citizen confirmed dead in Myanmar earthquake

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The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) has confirmed that a South African citizen has tragically died in the aftermath of the devastating earthquake that hit Myanmar.

Details of Myanmar earthquake

The victim, an English teacher, was among the 11 South African citizens the 7.7 magnitude earthquake affected.

According to Kaya959, DIRCO Head of Public Diplomacy, Clayson Monyela, released a statement confirming the sad news.

It is with deep sadness that we confirm the passing of a South African national in the recent earthquake in Myanmar. The individual was working as an English teacher in the region, our thoughts and condolences are with her family and friends during this incredibly difficult time.” Monyela stated.

The quake destroyed buildings, downed bridges, and buckled roads across swathes of Myanmar, with massive destruction seen in Mandalay, the country’s second biggest city and home to more than 1.7 million people.

Death toll from the earthquake

According to Aljazeera, the earthquake in Myanmar has killed 3,003 people and injured more than 4,500, MRTV reported late on Wednesday.

In neighbouring Thailand, the death toll from the quake rose to 22, with hundreds of buildings damaged and 72 people missing.

In a statement, Minister Ronald Lamola said: “South Africa stands in solidarity with the affected communities during this tragic time. The people of South Africa offer their thoughts to the families who lost loved ones and those injured. We commend the efforts of the emergency response teams and volunteers who are working tirelessly to provide relief and support to those in need.”

Minister Lamola added that: “In this time of sorrow, we extend our heartfelt sympathies and support to the peoples of Thailand and Myanmar.”