The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has issued a fresh warning to public service vehicle operators, urging them to strictly follow traffic rules following a deadly matatu crash in Nairobi that left five people dead.
The authority said it has summoned officials from Risen Sacco and Royal Swift Express Limited as investigations continue into two separate accidents involving vehicles operated by the companies.
In a statement issued on Thursday, NTSA said action will be taken against those found responsible once investigations are completed.
A warning has been issued just days after a terrible accident with a Risen Sacco matatu along Enterprise Road in Nairobi’s Industrial Area. The 33-seat bus, nicknamed “Detat,” flipped over, taking the lives of five individuals—passengers and the conductor.
Eyes-on witnesses said the car was being driven dangerously before flipping. Plus, pictures and videos show folks riding on the exterior of the matatu, which made the crash even more horrifying.
That footage zipped across the internet, making people furious and worried about safety in the matatu business.
Family members of the victims now want justice and accountability for those involved.
Meanwhile, NTSA said they’re looking into another mishap with a Royal Swift Express Limited vehicle on the Nairobi-Namanga Highway. No fatalities there, thankfully.
So, while tragedy struck in one case, investigators are busy examining ways to prevent future accidents in both instances.
The authority said officials from both transport operators had been called in to assist with ongoing investigations.
“Earlier today, the authority summoned officials of both Risen Sacco and Royal Swift Express Limited as investigations into the incidents continue. We remain committed to thorough investigations, and we will take appropriate action,” NTSA said.
The regulator has now urged PSV owners, drivers and conductors across the country to put passenger safety first and observe all traffic regulations.
NTSA warned that operators who fail to comply with road safety rules risk facing legal action as the authority intensifies efforts to curb accidents on Kenyan roads.
The latest warning comes amid growing concern over road crashes involving public transport vehicles, with safety agencies continuing to push for stricter compliance with traffic laws to reduce loss of life on the country’s roads.