Panic in Nairobi as Partially Demolished Building Collapses in Shauri Moyo, Several Feared Trapped

A wave of panic swept through Shauri Moyo’s Blue Estate in Nairobi after a partially demolished building suddenly collapsed on Monday, March 16, 2026, leaving several people feared trapped under the debris.

Witnesses at the scene said the structure had been undergoing demolition when it unexpectedly caved in, sending clouds of dust and concrete into the air and drawing dozens of residents to the site.

Residents rushed toward the collapsed structure in an attempt to rescue those believed to have been inside when the building gave way. Some locals began digging through the rubble using their bare hands and simple tools in a desperate effort to reach those possibly trapped beneath the debris.

According to eyewitness accounts, the sudden collapse caused widespread alarm in the densely populated neighborhood as crowds gathered around the wreckage while others attempted to coordinate rescue efforts.

By the time the incident was first reported, official rescue teams had not yet arrived at the scene, prompting residents to initiate emergency search operations on their own.

Unconfirmed reports from the area indicate that at least five people may still be trapped under the rubble, although authorities had not released official figures by the time of publication.

The collapse has raised fresh concerns about safety during demolition activities in Nairobi, particularly in crowded residential areas where buildings are often brought down while surrounding communities remain active.

Authorities are expected to launch investigations into the circumstances surrounding the collapse, including whether proper safety procedures were followed during the demolition process.

Meanwhile, search and rescue efforts are continuing as families and residents anxiously await news about those believed to be missing.

Photo: Capital FM