Nairobi, Kenya, February 7, 2024 — The aftermath of Thursday night’s tragic gas explosion in Embakasi continues to unfold as the death toll climbs to seven with the passing of another victim on Tuesday night due to severe burn injuries.
Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura disclosed the latest casualty and announced the arrest of an additional suspect in a statement released today. The incident has prompted heightened concerns over the proliferation of unregulated gas filling operations within residential areas.
In response to these concerns, Mwaura introduced a toll-free hotline, urging Kenyans to report any illegal gas refilling stations by dialing 020 3313004.
According to Mwaura, the police have apprehended Linet Cheruiyot, identified as a Senior Environmental Officer at the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA). The State is set to seek custodial orders for Cheruiyot at a court session in Nairobi’s Makadara scheduled for today.
Cheruiyot’s arrest brings the total number of individuals detained by law enforcement to five, following the presentation of four other suspects in court on Tuesday.
Among those presented in court was businessman Derrick Kimathi, whom the State sought to detain for twenty-one days to facilitate ongoing investigations. Kimathi appeared alongside three NEMA officials: David Ongare, Joseph Makau, and Mirrian Kioko, all charged with various environmental compliance roles.
The pre-trial hearing for the detention of the four suspects was adjourned by Trial Magistrate Dolphina Alego, who promised a verdict to be delivered today.
The gas explosion, which occurred in a residential area of Embakasi, has sent shockwaves through the community, prompting urgent calls for stricter regulations and oversight of gas filling operations across the country.
Authorities are under increasing pressure to address the underlying issues contributing to such tragedies and ensure the safety of citizens. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with unchecked industrial activities in densely populated urban areas.
Efforts are underway to provide support and assistance to the families affected by the explosion, with local authorities coordinating relief efforts and offering counseling services to those traumatized by the incident.
As investigations into the cause of the explosion continue, there is a growing demand for accountability and justice for the victims and their families. The outcome of today’s court proceedings is awaited with anticipation as the nation grapples with the aftermath of this devastating tragedy.
In the wake of this incident, calls for tighter regulations and enforcement mechanisms to prevent similar disasters in the future have intensified, underscoring the need for concerted efforts to prioritize public safety and well-being.