Rescue teams in Thika have recovered two more bodies from the scene of a fire that destroyed a mattress factory near BAT Makongeni on December 18, 2025.
Authorities confirmed that the bodies were found during ongoing search efforts by firefighters and rescue teams, working to account for all individuals who were inside the factory at the time of the incident.
According to an eyewitness, the fire started after an explosion involving gas pipes inside the building, stating that heaters within the factory ignited the fire and led to its rapid spread.
“It was an Explosion from gas pipes inside the building and the heaters inside the building ignited the fire, spreading it,” the witness stated
According to officials, four victims were admitted to Thika Level 5 Hospital, where they were receiving treatment following the fire.
One patient with more serious injuries was referred to Kenyatta National Hospital for specialized care, while two other patients who had been treated earlier were discharged after their condition improved.
The fire also resulted in injuries to first responders involved in the operation.
Three firefighters who were injured while fighting the blaze were treated at Thika Level 5 Hospital and later discharged.
The fire generated heavy smoke and inflicted severe damage on the factory, leaving most of the property beyond salvage.
Initial response efforts by the Kiambu County Fire Department were supplemented by assistance from the Murang’a County fire brigade.
The combined response enabled firefighters to contain the blaze and conduct recovery operations.
One of the firefighters urged industry owners to add emergency exits to enable the factory workers to escape in case of an emergency.
“ I would like to urge Industrial owners to install emergency exit doors so that incase of any danger, the workers have a way out,” he stated
