Death toll in Makongeni flat collapse rises to 7

Kenya: The death toll from a flat that caved in at Nairobi's Makongeni estate has increased to seven, Nairobi County Deputy Police Commander Moses Ombati has said.

The building collapsed on Wednesday morning, trapping about 20 people. So far, 10 have been rescued. There were fears yesterday that the number of dead could increase after rescuers admitted it would be difficult to retrieve one survivor.

The first victim died as he was being taken to hospital while other bodies were retrieved on Wednesday night and yesterday morning, several hours after the flat caved in.

Among the dead were two women, officials said.

Rescuers said they were in communication with 'people' trapped in the building and it could take a long time to clear the rubble.

Residents said there were limited resources dedicated to the rescue, which was slowed further because rescuers were exhausted.

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The rescue is a joint effort of the military, Kenya National Disaster Operation Centre, St John Ambulance, Kenya Red Cross Society, Nairobi City Fire Brigade and National Youth Service.

Police said they were looking for the owner of the building.