Kenyan police have issued a warning to social media creators and citizen journalists against livestreaming rescue efforts at the site of the collapsed building in Eastleigh. According to Incident Police Commander Duncan Ochieng, some individuals at the scene have been broadcasting on TikTok and other platforms, potentially disrupting rescue teams. Ochieng made the statement during a briefing on Tuesday, October 27. He emphasized that such broadcasts could jeopardize the operation.
The building collapse occurred on Friday, October 23, and since then, social media creators, including those with large followings, have gathered at the scene to share updates. Some have received praise for their detailed coverage and analysis. However, Ochieng urged them to stop livestreaming while rescue teams carry out their work. He stated that the operation follows international standards, with the International Search and Rescue Advisory Group monitoring the work and providing technical advice.
The rescue efforts have received support from various organizations and individuals. Well-wishers have donated equipment, including acoustic light detectors, which teams are now using. Chinese machinery and specialist teams have also joined the multi-agency response to the collapse of the 18-storey building under construction along 9th Street. Construction equipment manufacturer XCMG Group sent an excavator on the first day of the operation, followed by a 25-tonne crane the next day.
The machines have helped clear heavy concrete slabs and reach trapped survivors. According to Ochieng, the operation is being carried out based on international standards. The Kenya Red Cross has also been involved in the rescue efforts, with George Ndono, head of the organization’s Lower Eastern Region, stating that they had closed 30 of the 52 cases recorded in their tracing book after reuniting survivors with their families.
As of Tuesday morning, there were 22 unresolved cases. The Kenya Red Cross continues to work on tracing and reuniting families. The incident has garnered significant attention, with many people following the developments on social media. However, police have emphasized the need for caution and cooperation to ensure a successful rescue operation.
The collapse of the building has raised concerns about construction safety and regulations in Kenya. The government has faced criticism for allegedly not doing enough to prevent such incidents. An investigation into the cause of the collapse is likely to be conducted. For now, rescue teams continue to work tirelessly to locate and rescue those trapped under the debris.
The rescue operation is ongoing, with multiple agencies and organizations involved. The cooperation of the public, including social media creators, is crucial to ensuring the success of the operation. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of safety and regulations in the construction industry.
Key points
- Police warn social media creators against livestreaming rescue efforts at Eastleigh building collapse site
- Rescue teams receive support from organizations and individuals, including donated equipment and Chinese machinery
- Kenya Red Cross works on tracing and reuniting families, with 22 unresolved cases remaining
