A renowned rescue team from Mexico has begun operations in Venezuela after twin earthquakes struck the country over a week ago.
German Bello, a 39-year-old volunteer with the Brigada Internacional de Rescate Topos Azteca, one of Mexico's best-known civilian search-and-rescue organisations, is among the rescuers.
Founded after the devastating 1985 Mexico City earthquake, the non-profit brigade operates independently and has earned an international reputation for responding to major disasters both in Mexico and abroad.
The death toll from the twin earthquakes has climbed to 2,200 on Thursday after rescuers recovered more bodies from the debris. Fresh reports suggest that the toll could rise significantly in the coming days due to inaccessibility to several earthquake-hit areas.
The chances of survival for those still trapped under the rubble have dropped to single digits. However, rescue teams have pulled more than 11,000 people from the rubble over the past eight days.
International search-and-rescue teams have continued their operations around the collapsed buildings, apartments, and homes in the worst-hit state of La Guaira.
Meanwhile, Bello, who is part of the international rescue effort, said he is not sure when he will be able to return home, as the mission is expected to continue for a long period.
"There is no hunger, no heat, no sleep," said volunteer Merry Valencia, who has spent 14 years with the brigade, reciting part of the group's code of conduct.
"We are rescue workers from Mexico. If anyone is alive, make some noise or call out now!" a Mexican Army rescuer shouted on Saturday while searching the ruins of a collapsed building in La Guaira. Moments later, he raised a clenched fist in the air.
Also read: Venezuela hit by fresh 4.9 magnitude quake again
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