A building collapse in Nairobi has left many people feared trapped beneath a large pile of concrete in the capital’s Eastleigh area.
The structure, which was still under construction, gave way at about 1pm local time on Friday along a busy commercial street. More than 10 upper floors collapsed on top of one another, leaving little space between the concrete slabs.
Nairobi police chief Issa Mohamud said rescue efforts were complicated after people began looting neighbouring shops. Police fired tear gas to clear the area and allow emergency teams access to the wreckage.
Joseph Kaula, a plasterer working on the fifth floor, said he escaped moments before the building came down. He heard screams and saw workers running outside, warning that the structure was collapsing.
“I was the last person to walk out before it collapsed and the whole area was filled with dust,” Mr Kaula said.
He said he believed several of his colleagues could be trapped in the basement. An injured woman was rescued and taken to hospital, while another person heard calling for help later fell silent, police said.
Mr Mohamud warned that the wreckage could collapse again because the building was leaning against a neighbouring structure. Residents said some missing relatives had called for help after the collapse, but their phones later became unreachable.
A tent was established for people to report those who were missing, although it was not known how many people might still be inside the rubble.
Building collapses are a recurring problem in Nairobi. County officials responsible for issuing building permits have been accused of failing to carry out adequate inspections to ensure developers comply with safety rules and construction standards.
“Investigations will be carried out,” Mr Mohamud said. “We’ll make sure people face the law for any negligence.”
