February 02, 2024
A massive gas explosion in Nairobi, the capital of Kenya, has left about 300 people injured and at least three dead.
A lorry carrying gas exploded in Embakasi district at about 23:30 (20:30 GMT), "igniting a huge ball of fire", a government spokesperson said.
Damage was done to cars, shops, and housing. A massive fire could be seen burning near apartment buildings in the video.
An inquiry into the cause of the explosion is underway, and the area has been roped off.
It has been found by the BBC that the event has resulted in the arrest of at least one person.
The authorities then explained that a truck had detonated in the parking yard of the gas plant, rather than the original claim that the blast occurred there while workers were replenishing gas cylinders.
As a result, the fire that started has been contained.
Wesley Kimeto, the head of Embakasi police, confirmed that a child was among the deceased and warned that the number could still go up.
The authorities reported that 271 individuals, including at least 25 children, were admitted to the hospital.
Many of these individuals were treated and returned home, according to Nairobi Mayor Sakaja Johnson, while at least 39 were transported to other hospitals with serious or critical injuries.
Twenty-seven more individuals received on-site care for non-life-threatening wounds.