Africa News
At least six dead in Kenya building collapse
Oct 20, 2009, 18:06 GMT
Nairobi - Six people were confirmed dead and at least a dozen were still trapped following a building collapse near the Kenyan capital Nairobi, the Kenyan Red Cross said Tuesday.
The Red Cross said in a statement that the five-story building, which was under construction in the town of Kiambu, collapsed on Monday.
A security guard told the Red Cross that there was a loud bang when the building cracked, before collapsing.
Rescue work was still ongoing Tuesday, although it was not clear how exactly how many people were trapped under the rubble.
Some 18 people were injured in the accident.
The Red Cross said that some of the trapped construction workers were in contact with friends and relatives, raising hopes that more people could be found alive.
There has been no official explanation for the collapse, although heavy rains may have been a contributing factor.
Building collapses are not uncommon in Kenya, as contractors cut corners to keep up with a construction boom in and around the capital.
COMMENT
blog comments powered by DisqusLatest Headlines in Africa
- 1. Several dead in car bombing in northern Nigeria
- 2. Mogadishu blast kills seven, including sports chiefs
- 3. Seven dead in Mogadishu suicide bomb attack
- 4. ANC suspends Youth League leader with immediate effect
- 5. Police arrest Uganda's opposition leader and others at protest march
Older Talkback
