The Kenya Pipeline Company (KPC) has shut down part of its main petroleum transportation pipeline after it was accidentally punctured during drilling works near Tassia, Embakasi, Nairobi.
The incident, which could raise concerns over the safety of critical petroleum infrastructure, occurred at approximately 9:00 a.m. on Monday, November 9, 2026, along the pipeline corridor near Outer Ring Road.
In a statement obtained by Vantage Ke, KPC confirmed that the affected infrastructure was Line 5, which transports petroleum products from Mombasa to Nairobi.
Preliminary investigations indicated that a contractor working for the Kenya Railways Corporation (KRC) accidentally damaged the pipeline while conducting geotechnical surveys and drilling operations.
The incident prompted an emergency response, with KPC deploying technical personnel, pipeline repair teams and fire-safety officers to prevent further damage and contain the petroleum released.
“Following the incident, KPC immediately shut down the affected pipeline section and deployed its Incident Management team, pipeline repair personnel and fire-safety teams to the site. The situation is under control,” the company said, quoting Mr Mwendwa.
The company further disclosed that the affected area had been cordoned off, with additional personnel and equipment deployed to facilitate the recovery of petroleum products and minimise possible environmental damage.
KPC added that the drill rig operators involved in the works were assisting the Kenya Police Service with investigations to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident.
“Investigations are underway, and the KRC drill rig operators are assisting the Kenya Police Service with the investigations, while the KPC technical teams assess the extent of the damage and undertake the necessary repairs,” the company stated.
The company said its response teams were also working with security and emergency agencies to manage the situation, including environmental protection and public-safety measures.
The pipeline operator assured Kenyans that protecting communities living near its infrastructure and safeguarding the environment remained among its top priorities.
It further pledged to restore the affected section in accordance with applicable safety and environmental standards.