Kenyan authorities reported that a building fell during a controlled demolition in Nairobi, killing at least four persons and injuring several others.
The incident occurred near Shauri Moyo, where the structure was scheduled for removal as part of the Nairobi River Regeneration Project. Rescue teams, including the Kenyan army, were deployed to search for people feared trapped beneath the rubble.
Witnesses said the demolition became tragic when the structure suddenly collapsed while people were still inside. Leon Haji, who was on the scene, claimed they had been working on the construction when it fell on his pals, trapping several under the debris and prompting desperate cries for assistance in locating those who remained missing.
Another eyewitness said several young men had entered the building moments before the collapse, reportedly to collect scrap metal. Jennifer Mumbua explained that demolitions were underway when the group went inside, only for the structure to suddenly give way with them still inside.
Officials say at least two people have been rescued so far, while the cause of the collapse remains unclear.
Building collapses are a recurring problem in Nairobi, often linked to poor construction standards and weak enforcement of regulations. A past national audit found that more than half of buildings in the capital were unfit for habitation, raising ongoing concerns about urban safety.
