The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
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The proprietor of an illicit gas filling facility in Embakasi, which exploded over the weekend resulting in at least 6 fatalities and over 200 injuries, has surrendered to the authorities. According to reports, the businessman voluntarily presented himself to the police and is currently undergoing questioning as the investigation into the tragic incident unfolds.
Law enforcement has been actively pursuing seven individuals linked to the explosion, including Derick Kimathi, the owner of the unauthorized gas filling plant; Steve Kioko, Kimathi’s business partner; the truck driver suspected of causing the explosion, whose status is yet to be confirmed regarding whether he escaped or was among the casualties; and four NEMA officials who were suspended for allegedly illegally issuing a license to Kimathi’s company.
In his defense, Kimathi, through his legal representative, informed the police that he is engaged in the transportation of LPG products. He revealed that last year, he applied to the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) for a license to operate a gas filling plant in the area, but his applications were rejected. Kimathi denies reports suggesting that the site of the incident operated as an illegal gas plant, contending that it had functioned as a garage for several years.
However, questions arise regarding the specialized focus of the garage on repairing trucks specifically transporting Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG).
“Our client had not been operating a gas filling operation in that place; the premises had been functioning as a garage in recent years, and until Thursday, it was still operating as a garage. The motor vehicle that caused this incident was trespassing onto his property without his knowledge and consent,” stated the lawyer.
He argued that Kimathi abandoned the gas filling plant idea after EPRA rejected his applications, citing the site’s impracticality due to its proximity to the public.
Contrary claims from residents allege that the location indeed operated as an illegal gas filling plant, favored for its more affordable gas. One resident, Philip Juma, asserted that leakages often occurred during their nighttime operations, bringing in numerous trucks for cylinder refills.
In response to the incident, the government announced a series of measures to ensure compliance in the sector. These measures include conducting a fresh risk assessment for all LPG plants with the intention of closing non-compliant sites, demolishing illegal facilities, an immediate implementation of a government LPG growth strategy, and enhancing the LPG data verification framework, among other actions.
