Two Survivors Rescued as Police Launch Manhunt for Eastleigh Building Owner, Contractor

The National Police Service has launched a manhunt for the owner of a building and the contractor responsible for a multi-storey structure that collapsed while under construction along 9th Street in Eastleigh, Nairobi.

In a press statement dated October 24, 2026, the police said two survivors had been rescued and rushed to hospital following the incident that 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 aimed at locating and safely extracting any other survivors trapped in the rubble.

The rescue operation involves officers from the National Police Service, Kenya Defence Forces, Kenya Red Cross and Nairobi City County emergency crews, among other agencies.

Police have urged members of the public to keep away from Yusuf Haji Avenue and 9th Street to allow heavy excavators, specialised canine units and rescue personnel to access the site and carry out their duties without interference.

Meanwhile, investigators have launched a comprehensive probe in collaboration with relevant professional bodies to establish the cause of the collapse and determine whether criminal liability arose from negligence or violations of building regulations.

The police warned that any individual or entity found responsible for negligence or breaching building regulations would face the full force of the law.

Families searching for missing relatives have been advised to report to the Kenya Red Cross information desk established at the scene or call the emergency response number **1199** for assistance.

The National Police Service reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the rescue operation and providing assistance to affected families, while wishing the injured a quick and full recovery.

Further updates are expected as search-and-rescue efforts continue and investigations into the incident progress.