Two Rescued After Nairobi Building Collapse with Five Still Missing
British Broadcasting Corporation
- News
- US & Canada
- UK
- ... (rest of the list not included per guidelines)
Two people have been pulled alive from the rubble of a building that collapsed in Kenya's capital, Nairobi, as a search continues for five still missing.
Dramatic footage shows the collapse of the 16-18 storey building, with a plume of dust billowing into the surrounding streets on Friday. Dozens of builders had been working on the upper floors, but emerged largely unscathed. Those missing were believed to have been in shops at the base of the building.
The incident raises concerns about construction standards and regulations in Kenya.
Police launched a manhunt for the building's owner and contractor on Saturday.
The block, under construction at the time, had scaffolding still attached. Interior ministry official Kipchumba Murkomen stated that 66 of the 67 construction workers escaped unharmed, while one suffered non-life-threatening injuries.
He had earlier reported seven missing, with rescue teams making contact with some trapped beneath the rubble.
Two survivors were rescued on Saturday and taken to hospital.
Images show the building's concrete floors stacked, with rescue workers using metal-cutting tools to reach those believed trapped.
Questions have arisen about the cause of the collapse and whether the building met planning regulations.
Kenya's National Construction Authority identified the development company, architect, and structural engineer, but didn't mention any prior inspections.
Police are investigating the cause and potential criminal liability. They warned that anyone found negligent would face legal consequences.
Nairobi Governor Sakaja Johnson claimed the building's owners lacked necessary paperwork for occupation.