NAIROBI, Kenya Feb 7 – The court has allowed police to detain Embakasi gas plant owner Derrick Kimathi for 21 days to facilitate ongoing investigations into the blast that occurred last week.
The explosion, which occurred on Thursday night in Embakasi claimed the lives of seven people and left more than 300 others injured.
The owner of the plant surrendered to police days after the blast while the NEMA officials were arrested following a directive by President William Ruto.
On Wednesday, a magistrate’s court in Milimani allowed police to detain Mureithi and two NEMA officials for three weeks, while the fourth suspect will be detained for two weeks because he is unwell.
Kimathi will be held in custody alongside Joseph Makau and Marrian Kioko, both officials of NEMA who are accused of unlawfully issuing him a license.
Another NEMA official, David Ng’are, has been ordered detained for a maximum of 14 days due to medical issues, with his detention location being closer to Kenyatta National Hospital.
The suspects are under investigation for various offenses, including murder, conspiracy to commit a felony, and negligent acts causing harm. Chief Inspector Isaac Tenai, leading the investigation, emphasized the complexity of the case and the need to gather statements from relatives of the victims.
The investigation into the explosion remains intricate, with the possibility of discovering more bodies and additional victims. Due to the extensive damage to vehicles and equipment, the scene remains hazardous for assessment.
Kimathi, described as the “prime suspect,” appeared in court wearing a face mask. While his lawyer asserts his cooperation with authorities, they deny his operation of the site as a gas-filling plant.
In response to the tragedy, Nairobi Governor Sakaja Johnson has ordered the closure of all gas businesses operating in residential areas across the city.
