On February 6, 2023, a devastating earthquake hit the region of Hatay, Turkey, causing significant damage and loss of life.
Among those affected was professional footballer Christian Atsu, who remains unaccounted for following the collapse of the apartment he was staying in. According to his agent, Atsu was playing for the Hatayspor club at the time of the earthquake.
“Christian is still missing as off this moment, there has been no trace of his whereabouts. But the rescue team will continue to search for him and hopefully, all this will be resolved as soon as possible“
Despite initial reports that Atsu had been rescued with injuries, his current whereabouts remain unknown. Nana Sechere, who is on the ground in Hatay, reported that they have located the specific room where Atsu was staying and found his shoes. Thermal imaging cameras have also detected signs of life beneath the rubble that have not yet been confirmed.
Sechere expressed frustration with the slow pace of the rescue efforts and the urgent need for additional resources, including a translator, to aid in the search for Atsu and other potential survivors. Sechere also criticized Atsu’s club, Hatayspor, for not being more actively involved in the search.
Atsu’s partner, Claire Rupio, has called for more equipment to be sent to the site of the collapsed building. The earthquake and subsequent aftershocks have caused significant damage and casualties in southern Turkey and northern Syria, with a death toll currently exceeding 40,000 people.
The situation in Hatay is dire, and the search for survivors, including Atsu, is ongoing. The need for additional resources and support is crucial to aid in these efforts. Our thoughts are with the people of Hatay and all those affected by this tragedy.
