The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has launched a manhunt for suspended Nairobi County Chief Officer for Urban Planning and Development Patrick Analo Akivaga after the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) approved criminal charges linked to the fatal South C building collapse.
Analo, who was recently released on a cash bail of KSh 500,000 following an operation by the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC), is now wanted for fresh arrest and prosecution as investigations into the disaster enter a new phase.
The DPP, Renson Ingonga, has approved charges of abuse of office and neglect of official duty against the suspended county official. Investigators allege that failures in oversight and enforcement may have contributed to the circumstances that led to the deadly collapse.
The case forms part of a wider prosecution targeting dozens of individuals connected to the construction and approval of the building. Those facing charges include developers, architects, engineers, and county officials accused of various acts of negligence and regulatory violations.
Several suspects are expected to face manslaughter charges as authorities seek accountability for the loss of lives and destruction caused by the collapse. The prosecution marks one of the most significant legal actions arising from a building disaster in recent years.
The DCI has intensified efforts to locate Analo and ensure he is presented before court alongside other accused persons. Authorities say the prosecutions are intended to reinforce compliance with building regulations and send a strong warning against negligence in the construction sector.
The South C collapse sparked public outrage and renewed scrutiny of Nairobi's building approval processes, with concerns raised over enforcement failures, corruption, and the safety of urban developments. As court proceedings begin, victims' families and residents are hoping the case will deliver accountability and help prevent similar tragedies in the future.
Source Attributed: The Standard