DCI detectives have arrested Derrick Kimathi, the prime suspect who rented the Embakasi gas plant, manager Stephen Kilonzo and three NEMA officials.
“On 1st February, 2024 at around 11.30pm, a huge blast incident took place at an illegal LPG gas refilling point situated at Mradi area of Embakasi, Nairobi. The LPG refilling site is rented by Derrick Kimathi (the prime suspect) and put under the management of one Stephen Kilonzo.” said DCI
The news follows confirmation that the number of fatalities has risen to six and those stands at about 300 people who are receiving treatment at various hospitals in Nairobi.
- Tahmeed bus from Kitale to Malindi burst into flames at Voi
- Ruto orders arrest of gov’t officials who licensed Embakasi gas company
- Watchman arrested over Thursday’s gas explosion in Embakasi
“Arising from the blast, six fatalities have been recorded, and about 300 persons suffered different degrees of burns. Some were treated and discharged, while others are still admitted at various hospitals in serious conditions.
Several motor vehicles, business premises & residential houses were also destroyed by the harrowing inferno. The DCI continues to condole with the families of those who lost their dear lives, and wishes for the quick recovery of those recuperating in various health facilities.
Meanwhile,to ensure that justice has had its way, the DCI teams that are investigating the dreadful incident have so far arrested main suspect Derrick Kimathi alongside three NEMA officials who were found culpable.
These are David Ongare (Director Environment Compliance), Joseph Makau (Head Environmental Impact Assessment) and Mirrian Kioko. Five other suspects are still at large and are wanted by the DCI to answer to their crimes that have caused untold physical and emotional suffering to fellow Kenyans.
These includ Stephen Kilonzo (the site manager), Ann Kabiri Mirungi of NEMA, Lynette Cheruyoit (NEMA’s Senior Environmental Officer), truck driver Robert Gitau and Abraham Mwangi (driver).” said DCI
