They identified themselves as long-term partners who had been struggling financially before ending up in the building.
Their names were not immediately released.
What mattered more to investigators was how they ended up there.
How It Began
According to early accounts, their situation did not start in the alcove.
It began elsewhere.
Like many facing financial hardship, they reportedly experienced a gradual decline:
- Loss of stable housing
- Temporary stays in unsafe or unstable accommodations
- Increasing difficulty securing work
- Rising costs of living
At some point, they found the abandoned building.
Initially, it may have been temporary shelter.
A place to stay for a few nights.
But as circumstances worsened, temporary became permanent.
And the alcove became home.
Why the Alcove Worked
What made the discovery even more striking was how well-hidden the space had been.
The alcove was:
- Set back from main corridors
- Partially sealed by debris and collapsed material
- Invisible from most entry points
- Accessible only through a narrow passage
To someone casually walking through the building, it would have been easy to miss entirely.
Over time, the couple had enhanced the concealment, reinforcing the entry to reduce visibility.
In essence, they created a hidden micro-home inside a decaying structure.
Survival in an Abandoned Environment
Living in such conditions requires constant adaptation.
Investigators noted signs that the couple had developed systems for survival:
- Water collection from leaks and condensation
- Food storage from occasional scavenging or donations
- Strict organization to maintain hygiene in limited space
- Careful management of electricity using portable batteries
Despite the harsh environment, they had managed to sustain themselves.
But not without cost.
The Physical and Emotional Toll
Medical personnel who later examined the couple reported signs consistent with prolonged exposure to difficult living conditions:
- Nutritional deficiencies
- Fatigue and weakened immunity
- Sleep disruption
- Anxiety and stress-related symptoms
Beyond the physical effects, there was also emotional strain.
Living in isolation, even with a partner, in constant uncertainty, takes a psychological toll.
Yet the couple reportedly emphasized one thing:
They stayed together.
Why No One Knew
One of the most pressing questions raised by the discovery was simple:
How could two people live inside a city structure for so long without being detected?
The answer lies in several factors:
1. The building’s isolation
Few people entered the structure regularly.
2. Structural decay
Many areas were unsafe, discouraging thorough exploration.
3. Hidden location
The alcove was not visible from main pathways.
4. Lack of monitoring
No active surveillance or security presence existed.
In combination, these factors created a space where someone could exist unnoticed.
The Moment of Eviction
Once discovered, authorities acted quickly.
