The state-run National News Agency reported “the collapse of an old building” in Tripoli’s Bab al-Tabbaneh neighbourhood, the poorest in the impoverished city, adding that security staff evacuated adjacent buildings fearing further collapses.

Civil defence chief Imad Khreish told local media that the building consisted of two blocks, each containing six flats.

Khreish said six other people who were rescued were taken to hospital.

Local media showed images of residents and rescuers trying to remove debris with basic equipment and their bare hands.

Residents estimated some 22 people were inside at the time of the collapse, Khreish said.

The incident came after another deadly building collapse in Tripoli late last month.