By Andrew Kariuki
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has issued a detailed update on the ongoing probe into the collapse of Manzil Towers in South C, Nairobi, which occurred on January 2, 2026, and claimed two lives.
According to DCI, the duplicate inquiry file was received from the Regional Criminal Investigations Office (RCIO) Nairobi Region on February 11, 2026 and was immediately subjected to a thorough review and evaluation at its headquarters.
On February 12, 2026, the agency issued a comprehensive directive to the RCIO Nairobi Region outlining additional investigative steps required to address identified gaps, while acknowledging the progress already made.
The directive was also shared with the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) and the Inspector-General of the National Police Service to ensure transparency, coordination, and a unified approach in handling the high-profile case.
The DCI noted that the investigation involves complex elements, including reliance on reports and analyses from multiple government agencies. Investigators have been directed to examine the entire lifecycle of the project, from approvals and inspections to construction processes and the events leading to the collapse.
The probe will also include scrutiny of professional responsibilities, documentation, forensic audits, material testing, and inter-agency inputs to establish the exact cause of the incident.
The DCI reaffirmed its commitment to conducting a thorough, evidence-based investigation, stating that all individuals found culpable will be held accountable, including on charges related to the loss of life.
Upon completion of the investigations, the updated file will be forwarded to the ODPP for further action.
The agency has assured the public that the investigation remains active and is being handled with urgency, emphasizing that no effort is being spared to uncover the full circumstances surrounding the collapse and ensure justice is served.
