DPP accuses Kanja of delaying South C building collapse probe
By Aloys Michael, March 28, 2026The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Renson Ingonga, has criticised Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja over delays in submitting investigation files into the fatal South C building collapse, nearly three months after the tragedy claimed two lives.
In a letter dated Friday, March 27, 2026, and marked very urgent, Ingonga expressed frustration at what he termed as inaction by the police despite multiple directives from his office.
The letter, titled Second Reminder, comes amid growing concerns about accountability and justice for the victims’ families.
Ingonga stated that his office had previously issued clear instructions to the National Police Service to investigate the January 2, 2026, incident thoroughly and submit findings within strict timelines.
However, those directives appear to have gone unheeded.
“Despite writing twice to the Inspector General of Police directing police to investigate, record statements from all persons, and submit the findings, no file has been forwarded to my office,” the DPP wrote.
DPP’s directives
The first directive, dated January 4, 2026, instructed police to launch a comprehensive investigation into the collapse and record statements from all relevant parties.
These included the developer, contractor, and officials responsible for building approvals, inspections, and enforcement.
The DPP specifically highlighted the need to question members of the Nairobi City County technical committee in charge of building approvals, as well as the county compliance team.
Police were required to forward the investigation file to the DPP within seven days for perusal and further action.
A follow-up letter dated February 9, 2026, reiterated the urgency of the matter after the initial deadline lapsed without compliance.
In that communication, Ingonga noted that his office had yet to receive any files and directed that they be submitted within three days.
“Another letter on February 9, 2026, informed the Inspector General that no file had been received and directed that the same be forwarded within three days,” the statement indicated.
More than a month later, the DPP says there has still been no response from the police, prompting the latest reminder. Ingonga has now issued a fresh ultimatum, demanding that the investigation files be submitted within three days.
The delay has raised serious concerns about justice for the families of the two individuals who lost their lives in the collapse.
The incident sparked public outrage and renewed scrutiny of construction standards and enforcement in Nairobi, particularly in rapidly developing residential areas like South C.
Ingonga’s latest remarks also point to a broader pattern of delays in police investigations. A month ago, he faulted investigative agencies for failing to promptly submit files in other cases, including those involving police misconduct.
As pressure mounts, all eyes are now on Kanja to comply with the DPP’s directive and move the case forward.
For the affected families, the prolonged wait continues to deepen their anguish as they seek accountability and closure.
The South C building collapse remains a stark reminder of the consequences of regulatory failures, with the DPP’s intervention signalling a renewed push for transparency and justice.