15 people die in a Nakuru accident

By Peter Ochieng

Fifteen people died on Tuesday morning in an accident involving a bus belonging to the Classic Kings of Congo, and North Ways Shuttle Matatu.

The 02:45am accident occurred at Twin Bridge area along the busy Nakuru - Eldoret highway.

Over 20 people have died in accidents on that road side far this month.

In a statement, the National Police Service (NPS) said seven people were injured and rushed to hospital.

"The injured were rushed to Molo Sub-County Hospital. The National Police Service is appealing to all motorists to exercise extreme caution on our roads to prevent road crashes."

Kuresoi North police commander Judah Gathenge said all passengers in the matatu which was heading to Nairobi, lost their lives.

The deceased include eight adults and seven children. The bus was travelling towards the opposite direction.

On Monday, the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) asked public transport vehicles and school bus drivers to be extra cautious, as schools reopen, for the new term to avoid accidents.

NTSA road safety Manager Samuel Musumba said the reopening of schools comes with an increased number of commuters, and road safety challenges, and as such, accidents are highly likely.

“We wish to caution all drivers to be very careful during this period. We ask drivers to avoid speeding in an effort to make more trips, it’s dangerous. Ensure also discipline is adhered to in your vehicles, all students must belt up and monitor to ensure no cases of indiscipline like alcohol consumption happen in your vehicles,” said Musumba.

He further urged matatu operators to ensure their vehicles are in good working conditions, and are fully insured before putting them on the road.