By D, KNA
Police in Tharaka Nithi have launched investigations to determine the source of a fire that broke out on Wednesday night and destroyed Tharaka University’s administration block.
Among the offices that were extensively damaged by the fire include the Vice Chancellor’s office, the institution’s ICT server room, and other nearby administrative offices in the institution.
Confirming the incident, Tharaka Nithi County Police Commander, Mr Zacchaeus Ng’eno said property of unknown value was also destroyed during the incident.
He, however, said that no injuries were reported.
“We have started investigations to establish the cause of the fire. A valuation of the destroyed property is also being conducted,” said Mr Ng’eno.
He further said that they were working closely with relevant departments and the university management to determine the cause of the fire and the extent of damage.
While responding to claims that the county government did not do much to save the situation, Chief Fire Officer, Alex Mugambi, said the Marimanti fire engine responded to the distress call but exhausted its water supply due to the absence of hydrants within the university premises.
Mugambi added that during the refill process, some students allegedly pelted the fire engine with stones, injuring one firefighter and damaging the vehicle.
“Backup fire engines from Chuka and Chogoria stations were later deployed to the scene once the situation had calmed. Despite the response efforts, significant property loss was reported,” said Mr Mugambi.
He reiterated the department’s commitment to responding to emergencies despite operational challenges.