Saudi probes Grand Mosque crane disaster

Saudi probes Grand Mosque crane disaster

Saturday, September 12, 2015 9:26 am


Grand Mosque crane disaster

Grand Mosque crane disaster

Saudi Arabia authorities have  begun an investigation into why a crane collapsed in the Muslim holy city of Mecca, killing at least 87 people. Some accounts said 107 people died.

The huge red crane crashed into a part of the Grand Mosque as it was filled with worshippers.

Officials say strong winds and heavy rains caused the crane to fall.

There have previously been concerns about safety records on Saudi construction sites.

Saudi Grand Mosque: scene of the disaster

Saudi Grand Mosque: scene of the disaster

The Grand Mosque, known as the Masjid al-Haram, is the largest mosque in the world and surrounds Islam’s holiest place, the Kaaba.

At least 230 people were injured in the incident. It is unclear how many people were hurt by the collapse or the stampede that followed it.

The Saudi authorities have not disclosed the nationalities of the victims.


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