Rescue teams in Thika have recovered two more bodies from the scene of a devastating fire that destroyed a mattress factory near BAT Makongeni on December 18, 2025, raising fresh concerns over industrial safety standards.
Authorities confirmed that the bodies were discovered during ongoing search and recovery operations by firefighters and emergency responders who have been working to account for all individuals who were inside the factory at the time of the incident.
Explosion Suspected as Cause of Fire
An eyewitness at the scene said the fire broke out following an explosion involving gas pipes inside the factory. According to the witness, heaters within the building ignited the gas, causing the fire to spread rapidly through the premises.
“It was an explosion from gas pipes inside the building and the heaters inside the building ignited the fire, spreading it,” the witness said.
The cause of the fire is still under investigation, but officials say early indications point to gas-related ignition as a key factor.
Victims Hospitalised After Blaze
Health officials confirmed that four victims were admitted to Thika Level 5 Hospital with injuries sustained during the fire. One patient, who suffered more serious injuries, was later referred to Kenyatta National Hospital for specialised treatment.
Two other patients who had been treated earlier were discharged after their condition improved, hospital authorities said.
Firefighters Also Injured
The incident also left first responders injured as they battled the intense blaze. Three firefighters sustained injuries during the operation and were treated at Thika Level 5 Hospital before being discharged.
Despite the injuries, firefighters continued with containment and recovery efforts under challenging conditions caused by heavy smoke and extreme heat.
Factory Destroyed, Property Lost
The fire caused extensive damage to the mattress factory, with most of the property inside declared beyond salvage. Thick smoke billowed from the building for hours, drawing crowds and forcing emergency teams to cordon off the area.
Initial response efforts by the Kiambu County Fire Department were later reinforced by the Murang’a County fire brigade, enabling firefighters to eventually contain the blaze and begin recovery operations.
Call for Better Safety Measures
Following the incident, one of the firefighters issued a strong appeal to industrial facility owners to prioritise worker safety by installing emergency exit doors.
“I would like to urge industrial owners to install emergency exit doors so that in case of any danger, the workers have a way out,” the firefighter said.
Authorities say investigations are ongoing to establish compliance with fire safety regulations, including the presence of emergency exits, gas safety systems, and firefighting equipment within the factory.
The tragedy has renewed calls for stricter enforcement of industrial safety standards to prevent future loss of life.