The Kenya Red Cross has announced that 21 children have been safely reunited with their parents after the a gas explosion that occurred at Kentainers Company near Kabansora in Mradi area, Embakasi, Nairobi County.
The midnight blast prompted emergency response efforts, with the Kenya Red Cross taking swift action to rescue and support the affected.
The Kenya Red Cross confirmed that search parties were deployed in the area to recover missing persons and bodies while providing crucial first aid to those injured in the blast.
The organization said it has set up a tracing desk as part of the ongoing search and rescue efforts.
“Continuing our search and rescue efforts post the Embakasi fire tragedy, we set up a tracing desk earlier today and successfully reunited 21 children with their parents. Additionally, we are on the ground providing first aid and psychosocial support services to those affected,” Kenya Red Cross said.
Continuing our search and rescue efforts post the Embakasi fire tragedy, we set up a tracing desk earlier today and successfully reunited 21 children with their parents.
— Kenya Red Cross (@KenyaRedCross) February 2, 2024
Additionally, we are on the ground providing first aid and psychosocial support services to those affected pic.twitter.com/h6qCxfasDp
Cause of fire
The government attributed the source of the blast to a truck that detonated, triggering a massive fireball that engulfed a nearby warehouse.
“One lorry with an unknown registration number that was loaded with gas exploded, igniting a huge ball of fire that spread widely.
“A flying gas cylinder hit Oriental Godown, burning down the said godown, which deals with garments and textiles. Consequently, the inferno further damaged several vehicles and commercial properties, including many small and medium-sized businesses,” Mwaura said in a statement.
The fire spread to the neighbouring residential areas, and so far, three deaths have been confirmed by the state.
“Sadly, residential houses in the neighbourhood also caught fire, with a good number of residents still inside as it was late at night.
“As a result, two fellow Kenyans have regrettably lost their lives while being attended to at the Nairobi West Hospital,” the statement added.
Embakasi MP Babu Owino speaks
Speaking to the media, Embakasi East MP Babu Owino called for Kenyans to pray for the affected families.
“The fire destroyed properties, so many houses and businesses have been destroyed. A lot has happened. This is a great incident that has taken us back because people have lost lives, over 270 people are at different hospitals and nearby dispensaries,” Babu expressed
Adding;
“There is still a search going on to find any missing bodies in various houses. And we are asking Kenyans to pray for us. We are asking for your prayers as Embakasi East residents after an explosion that consumed several lives and brought over 300 people to hospitals with serious injuries.”
