The official death toll from the Christchurch earthquake stands at 123 this morning and is expected to climb, says Canterbury District Commander, Superintendent Dave Cliff.
Disaster victim identification (DVI) teams from New Zealand and around the world continue to work through the rubble in earnest. Team members are working as fast as they can and to a world class standard, he says.
Urban Search & Rescue (USAR) teams are resuming work in the Cathedral today, after progress was halted yesterday due to falling masonry. Work is also continuing at the PGC and CTV buildings. Teams will also check other buildings in the CBD, including lifts.
Family Liaision Teams will hold two meetings today, one with local families and one with families from overseas. Families specifically asked Police to remind media that their privacy should be respected, said Mr Cliff.
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Enquiries to Christchurch Police Media:
0274 320 960 or ChchPoliceMediaLiason@police.govt.nz
Public enquiries:
info@police.govt.nz
Please see www.police.govt.nz/christchurch-earthquake for updates