A 16-storey building under construction collapsed early this morning in the Shopping Centre area of South C, Nairobi, triggering a major emergency response and raising fears of possible casualties. The incident occurred during the early hours, when reports indicate that several people may have been inside the structure at the time of the collapse.
According to initial information, the building was still under construction when it suddenly gave way, sending debris across the site and nearby areas. The exact cause of the collapse has not yet been established, and authorities have urged the public to avoid speculation as investigations get underway.
Police have confirmed the incident but are yet to release official figures on injuries or fatalities. Casualties remain unknown at the moment, as rescue teams continue to comb through the rubble in search of survivors. Witnesses at the scene described moments of panic as the structure collapsed, prompting residents and workers in the area to alert emergency services.
A multi-agency emergency response team has since been deployed to the scene to coordinate rescue and recovery operations. The team includes police officers, firefighters, medical personnel, and disaster response units, all working under challenging conditions to access those who may be trapped. Heavy machinery has been moved in to assist with clearing debris, while medical teams remain on standby to provide urgent care.
The Nairobi building collapse has renewed concerns over construction safety standards in Kenya, particularly in rapidly developing urban areas like South C. Authorities are expected to launch a full investigation into whether the building met approved construction and safety regulations.
This is a developing story, and more details are expected as rescue operations continue and officials provide updates on the situation.