Kasarani locals throng crash scene with jerry cans to loot oil

Residents of Kasarani descended on a lorry ferrying tonnes of vegetable oil after it crashed.

The lorry, travelling from Mombasa to Nairobi, overturned and caught fire in the outskirts of Voi town as residents showed up with jerry cans intent on looting.

Police had a difficult time controlling the surging crowd and were forced to retreat after being pelted with stones. They however restored order after reinforcements arrived.

Speaking to The Standard, Voi OCPD Joshua Lutukai condemned the residents' actions.

"Instead of assisting the driver, who was seriously injured, residents started pillaging the cargo. Their behaviour is not only deplorable but also illegal and we will take necessary action against those involved," he warned.

Mr Lutukai said the lorry first hit the rear of another vehicle, which was travelling in the same direction, before veering off the road and rolling several times.