The National Police Service has launched a manhunt for the owner of a multi-storey building that collapsed in Nairobi’s Eastleigh area, as investigations begin into the incident that has triggered a major search-and-rescue operation.
In a statement issued on Saturday, October 24, 2026, the police said two survivors had been rescued from the rubble of the building, which collapsed along 9th Street on Friday, October 23.
The National Police Service said it had taken command of the scene alongside a multi-agency response team to coordinate rescue efforts and facilitate the safe extraction of anyone who may still be trapped beneath the debris.
Police have also launched a manhunt for the building’s owner and the contractor responsible for the construction site as part of efforts to establish accountability for the collapse.
The service said it had initiated a comprehensive investigation in collaboration with relevant professional bodies to determine the cause of the incident and establish whether there was any criminal liability.
Individuals or entities found culpable of negligence or violations of building regulations will face the full force of the law, according to the police.
The ongoing rescue operation involves several agencies, including the Kenya Defence Forces, the Kenya Red Cross Society and Nairobi City County emergency crews.
Specialised rescue teams, heavy excavators and canine units have been deployed to assist in the search for survivors and clear the debris.
The police have urged members of the public to keep away from Yusuf Haji Avenue and 9th Street to allow emergency responders to access the scene without interference.
The restriction is intended to provide rescue personnel with sufficient space to operate heavy machinery and specialised equipment as they continue searching for people who may remain trapped in the collapsed structure.
Meanwhile, families searching for missing relatives have been advised to report to the Kenya Red Cross desk established at the scene or call the emergency response number, 1199, for assistance and information.
The latest update comes amid growing concerns over building safety and compliance with construction regulations, particularly in densely populated urban neighbourhoods where construction activity is widespread.
The National Police Service said it remained committed to supporting the rescue operation and providing the necessary assistance to save lives.
It also wished the injured survivors a quick and full recovery while expressing sympathy to families whose loved ones remain missing.
Further updates are expected as the search-and-rescue operation progresses and investigators work to establish the circumstances surrounding the collapse.
The police have not yet disclosed the total number of people who may have been inside the building when it collapsed or the number of people still missing.
