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In a devastating incident in the Kenyan capital, Nairobi, a massive gas explosion has resulted in the loss of at least three lives and left nearly 300 individuals injured. The catastrophe unfolded in the Embakasi district around 23:30 local time when a gas-laden lorry exploded, creating an enormous fireball that wreaked havoc on residential areas, businesses, and vehicles.
Initially believed to be at a gas plant, the cause of the explosion is still under investigation, with the death toll expected to rise, as confirmed by Embakasi police chief Wesley Kimeto. Tragically, one of the victims was a child. The Kenya Red Cross reported that 271 people were transported to hospitals, while 27 others received on-site treatment.
Government spokesperson Isaac Mwaura Mwaura described the aftermath, stating that the fireball had rapidly spread, impacting a garments and textiles warehouse after a flying gas cylinder struck it. This led to the destruction of numerous vehicles, commercial properties, and residential houses, trapping residents inside during the late-night incident.
Witnesses recounted feeling tremors immediately following the blast, with many of the injured suffering from inhalation injuries, including at least 25 children. Boniface Sifuna, a survivor, shared his harrowing experience of being burnt by an exploding gas canister while attempting to escape. He described the impact knocking him down, yet he managed to escape the engulfing flames.
Resident James Ngoge, who lived across the street from the explosion, likened the experience to an earthquake, expressing shock as he witnessed his business being completely destroyed.
The Kenya Red Cross reported on social media that their crews were tirelessly combating the flames. Government spokesman Mr. Mwaura assured the public that the blast scene had been secured, and a command center had been established to coordinate rescue operations. Urging Kenyans to stay away from the cordoned area, he emphasized the need for minimal disruptions to facilitate an effective rescue mission. The incident has left the community in shock and mourning, emphasizing the importance of ongoing investigations to ascertain the cause of the tragic gas explosion in Nairobi.
