The National Police Service has launched a manhunt for the owner of a building and the contractor responsible for its construction following the collapse of a multi-storey building along 9th Street in Eastleigh, Nairobi.
In a press statement issued on Saturday, October 24, 2026, the police confirmed that two survivors had been rescued and rushed to hospital following the incident, which occurred on Friday, October 23.
The National Police Service said it had taken command of the scene alongside a multi-agency response team to coordinate search-and-rescue operations and facilitate the safe extraction of any additional survivors.
“Our officers continue to work as part of a broader multi-agency disaster response team, which includes the Kenya Defence Forces, the Kenya Red Cross and Nairobi City County emergency crews,” the statement read.
The teams are using heavy excavators, specialised canine units and other rescue equipment to search through the collapsed structure.
Police have urged members of the public to keep away from Yusuf Haji Avenue and 9th Street to allow rescue personnel to operate without interference and ensure emergency teams have unhindered access to the site.
The National Police Service has initiated a comprehensive investigation, in collaboration with relevant professional bodies, to establish the cause of the collapse and determine whether criminal liability arises.
Authorities warned that individuals or entities found responsible for negligence or violations of building regulations would face legal consequences.
“Any individual or entity found culpable of negligence or of violating building regulations will face the full force of the law,” the police stated.
The manhunt for the building’s owner and the contractor responsible for the site has also been launched as investigations continue.
The police have advised families seeking information about missing relatives to report to the Kenya Red Cross desk established at the scene.
Those seeking assistance can also contact the emergency response number 1199.
The National Police Service reaffirmed its commitment to supporting rescue efforts and expressed sympathy to families whose loved ones remain missing.
“We wish the injured a quick and full recovery and express our deepest sympathies to those whose loved ones are still missing,” the statement added.
Police said further updates would be provided as search-and-rescue operations progress.
