Neighboring residents were shocked by the loud explosion that echoed around them, causing anxiety and fear to many.
Reports reaching the news station suggest that the explosion occurred after a gas leak, which started a massive fire that quickly consumed the surrounding area.
Some residents managed to capture the terrifying scene on camera. Footage showed towering flames and thick smoke rising into the sky, casting an eerie shadow over nearby apartments.
The cause of the explosion has not yet been determined, and the extent of the damage is unknown at this time.
Emergency teams, including firefighters and medical personnel, were immediately dispatched to the scene to extinguish the fire and provide assistance to those affected.
Statement by Government Spokesperson
Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura issued the following statement:
“At Kenteiners Company Limited” A fire broke out near Kabansola in Embakasi, Nairobi. A fire broke out while the company was refilling gas cylinders, and several people were injured and taken to the hospital.
“The building housing the company is badly damaged. The cause of the fire remains unknown. Rescue operations are underway and fire engines are on the scene, so members of the public are advised not to leave the area. “Advised to avoid.”, widely disseminated.
A gas cylinder mid-flight hit Oriental Godown Co., which sells clothing and textile products, and burned down the company.
As a result, the inferno damaged several more vehicles and commercial establishments, including many small businesses.
Unfortunately, neighboring houses were also affected by the fire, and since it was late at night, many residents were still inside.
As a result, two Kenyans who were being treated at Nairobi West Hospital sadly lost their lives.
Mwaura expressed his heartfelt condolences to the family of his deceased.
Additionally, 222 other Kenyans were injured in the fire and admitted to various hospitals as follows: Kenyatta National Hospital
21 people Mama Lucy General Hospital
160 people Mbagashi Hospital 19 people Modern Komarock Hospital
14 people Nairobi West
8 people Hospital
The accident scene has been secured and rescue operations and other interventions are underway. A command center was established to help coordinate activities.
Kenyans are advised to stay away from the cordoned off areas to allow rescue operations to be carried out with minimum disruption.
The Government expressed its gratitude to all agencies including the National Police, Nairobi County Government, Kenya Red Cross Society, St John’s Ambulance and well-meaning Kenyans for their quick response.
Finally, the government is also working to support the victims of the fire incident and contribute to the restoration of normalcy in the affected areas.