One person was killed and at least five others seriously injured after a fierce fire broke out at a mattress-making factory in Makongeni area, Thika Town, Kiambu County.
The inferno, which started at around 10am, quickly engulfed the entire plant, reducing factory structures to rubble and destroying finished products and raw materials worth millions of shillings.
By the time firefighters arrived, thick black smoke had filled the area as flames spread rapidly across the facility.
Witnesses led by Julius Maina and Peter Nthenge said the injured workers were rescued in critical condition and rushed to different hospitals in Thika and its environs for emergency treatment.
Residents who rushed to the scene described chaotic moments as workers attempted to escape the burning factory amid fears of explosions.
Fire engines responded swiftly following an alert from residents, but efforts to contain the blaze were hampered by the intensity of the fire.
Reports indicated that leaking gas within the factory may have accelerated the spread of the flames, making it difficult for firefighters to gain control.
More than seven fire trucks were eventually deployed to the area as the rescue operation continued.
The cause of the fire had not been established by the time of going to press, with investigations expected to be launched to determine what triggered the deadly incident.
Kiambu MCAs led by Deputy Speaker John Njiru and Kentamms Mwangi who visited the scene said rescue and cooling operations were still ongoing as authorities worked to ensure the fire did not spread to neighbouring buildings.
They noted that the incident had exposed gaps in fire preparedness within the industrial area.
They revealed that plans were underway to increase the number of fire hydrants in Makongeni and other industrial zones to improve emergency response during fire outbreaks.
They at the same time called on factory owners in Thika to prioritise worker safety by installing clear emergency exits and adhering to fire safety regulations to prevent future tragedies.
