Kenya: KDF Deploys Specialised Rescue Team to Eastleigh Building Collapse

What the report says

Kenya Defence Forces personnel have been sent to Eastleigh in Nairobi to help with rescue efforts after a multi-storey building under construction collapsed along 9th Street, according to Capital FM as distributed by AllAfrica. The deployment includes specialised Urban Search and Rescue teams, canine units, a Rapid Response Unit from the Kenya Air Force, and other equipment to assist emergency crews working at the site.

The operation is being carried out with multiple agencies, including the National Police Service, Kenya Red Cross Society, Nairobi County Fire Brigade, the National Disaster Management Unit, the National Disaster Operations Centre, the Ministry of Health and St John Ambulance. Teams are clearing debris, trying to reach trapped sections of the structure and searching for anyone who may still be alive under the rubble.

Capital FM reported that six survivors had been recovered so far, including two brought out during later phases of the operation. Those two were said to be in stable condition and referred to Kenyatta National Hospital for further care. Rescue work has continued for four days since the collapse on Friday, October 23, with the damaged structure described by engineers as difficult to access because of the way the floors fell.

The disaster has also prompted investigations. The Engineers Board of Kenya has opened a probe into possible contributing factors, and the Directorate of Criminal Investigations has been directed to examine whether any wrongdoing occurred. The KDF said its role is to support civilian authorities during emergencies that require rapid mobilisation and specialised resources.