Building partially collapses, injures five in Naivasha

Naivasha sub-county has stopped the construction of this building in Kabati estate in Naivasha after a section of it collapsed on a nearby private hospital seriously injuring five patients. Pic By Antony Gitonga

A building that was under construction partially collapsed on a private hospital, injuring five people in Naivasha yesterday.

This came as Naivasha sub-county ordered the arrest of the contractor and the owner of the two-storey building in Kabati estate.

A witness, Abel Mwangi, said construction began last year, adding that they were concerned over the quality of the works.

He said patients and relatives visiting Lakeview Nursing Home were the most affected.

"A section of the wall collapsed on the private hospital and nearby houses and we fear that the whole building could soon come down," he said.

Naivasha Sub-County Administrator Julius Nyaata confirmed that construction had been stopped. Mr Nyaata said the sub-county had previously written to the owner and the contractor to stop building the house but this directive was ignored.

"We were shocked that the building was still under construction and we shall take the necessary measures and charge all those involved in court," he said.

A police source said they were waiting for those injured to recover so that they record statements before the owner of the building is charged.

Meanwhile, the decomposing body of a missing woman has been found in her house in Kayole estate in Naivasha.

The middle-aged woman, who is said to be a commercial sex worker, was last seen two weeks ago.

Joshua Muya, a witness, said neighbours caught a foul smell coming from her locked house, forcing them to call the police and the area chief.