Sakaja Orders Immediate Closure Of Gas Plants Operating Within Residential Areas

Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has ordered all gas businesses operating in residential areas within the county to be shut down immediately.

Speaking on Tuesday, February 6 in Mradi Estate, Embakasi where a fire incident happened last week, Sakaja directed all sub-county administration officers to ensure the order is followed.

"I have directed all sub-county administration officers to ensure all gas businesses operating within residential areas are closed with immediate effect,” Sakaja stated.

The Nairobi County boss also assured victims of the fire tragedy that the owner of the gas plant that exploded on Thursday last week will be held accountable.

"I want to assure Nairobians that the owners of the premises where the incident took place shall be held responsible and accountable,” Sakaja added.

The UDA Governor was accompanied by his deputy Njoroge Muchiri County Executives, Chief Officers, and County Staff. They visited some of the bereaved families of the Mradi Estate fire incident.

The tragedy happened after a lorry loaded with gas exploded, igniting a huge fire that spread quickly in the adjacent areas.

A flying gas cylinder hit Oriental Godown, burning down the said godown which deals with garments and textiles.

Vehicles that were parked near the area of the explosion and various businesses were also razed down by the huge inferno.

Six people died during the incident with over three hundred others nursing injuries from the explosion.

The owner of the premises Derick Kimathi and three other NEMA officials have so far been apprehended over the tragedy. The DCI is pursuing five other suspects who are on the run following the incident.