Authorities call for calm as rescue efforts at South C building collapse enter critical stage
By Joel Masibo, January 4, 2026Rescue and recovery efforts are in progress at the collapsed South C Shopping Centre building, marking a sombre moment on the third day of searching for suspected missing persons.
In a media brief issued on Sunday, January 4, 2026, Incident Commander and Director of the National Disaster Management Unit, Duncan Onyango Ochieng, confirmed that significant progress has been made at the site, even as operations remain highly delicate and risky.
Ochieng said the operation continues to be guided by a firm commitment to locate and retrieve all suspected victims, using specialised skills, equipment, and proven urban search and rescue techniques.
He noted that every operational decision being taken at the site prioritises the safety of responders while maximising the chances of reaching any remaining victims.
Ochieng speaks
”We wish to this earliest opportunity today to speak directly to the families and relatives of the suspected trapped victims. We fully understand the anxiety, uncertainty, and emotional distress that you are going through,” Ochieg said.
”Please be assured that the Incident Management Team is doing everything within its means, applying specialised skills, equipment and proven rescue techniques to locate and retrieve the suspected victims. This remains our central motivation, and every operational decision is guided by that commitment,” he added.
Further, the Incident Management Team cautioned that the active site poses heightened risks due to the continuous movement of heavy machinery, debris obstructing access pathways, and the presence of exposed metallic materials within the rubble.
As a result, members of the public and responders without appropriate personal protective equipment have been urged to stay away from the restricted area. Authorities have clearly demarcated the operational zone and appealed for cooperation from the public and all responding agencies to observe the established safety boundaries.
Safety measures
According to the Incident Commander, adherence to these measures is critical to preventing secondary injuries and ensuring that recovery efforts proceed without interruption. Ochieng also extended his condolences to the affected families and thanked the South C community and the wider public for their patience and understanding during what he described as a deeply difficult period.
He also commended the multi-agency Urban Search and Rescue teams for working around the clock with dedication and professionalism. The incident occurred on Friday, January 2, 2026.