Several people have been injured and rushed to the hospital following a major explosion at Embakasi estate in Nairobi.
The midnight blast occurred at Kentainers Company near Kabansora in Embakasi.
Several people injured in late night fire outbreak in Embakasi following a series of explosions
— Oliver Mathenge (@OliverMathenge) February 2, 2024
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In a statement, Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura confirmed the tragic incident at the refilling gas cylinder company.
According to the spokesperson, the building housing the gas company sustained significant damage as the cause of the fire is yet to be determined.
“There has been a fire outbreak at Kentainers Company Ltd near Kabansora in Embakasi, Nairobi. The company was refilling gas cylinders when the fire broke out and several people [were] injured and rushed to the hospital. The building hosting the company is badly damaged. The cause of the fire remains unknown,” Mwaura stated.
He said rescue operations are underway, with fire engines deployed to the area to contain the aftermath of the explosion.
Mwaura advised the public to steer clear of the affected area to facilitate ongoing emergency efforts.
According to a report from the Kenya Red Cross, 29 injured individuals have been transferred to Kenyatta National Hospital for urgent medical attention.
They said the extent of their injuries and the severity of the situation are being assessed as medical teams work tirelessly to provide necessary care.
“In the relentless fight against the Embakasi Village fire in Nairobi County, our team, alongside a multi-agency response force, is tirelessly battling the flames. @EMS_Kenya has swiftly transferred 29 injured individuals to the Kenyatta National Hospital,” Kenya Red Cross stated.
In the relentless fight against the Embakasi Village fire in Nairobi County, our team, alongside a multi-agency response force, is tirelessly battling the flames.@EMS_Kenya has swiftly transferred 29 injured individuals to the Kenyatta National Hospital. pic.twitter.com/2CcXyLhW9M
— Kenya Red Cross (@KenyaRedCross) February 2, 2024