One dead as trailers collide, causing heavy traffic on Nairobi-Mombasa highway

Wreckage of the accident at Jett Inn area on the Nairobi- Mombasa highway. [Sourced]

One person has been killed following a road accident involving three trailers at Jett Inn area on the Nairobi-Mombasa highway.

According to Nzaui Sub-County Traffic Commander Nderitu Gitonga, two trucks coming from Mombasa direction failed to maintain a lane when a head-on collision occurred with another truck headed towards Nairobi.

"A truck overtook dangerously, where a head-on collision happened. They were on high speed, and the impact of the accident left the two trucks firmly stuck together, which made it hard to remove their wreckages," said Gitonga.

Adding that, "This particular truck from Nairobi had another behind it that also hit it from the rear section, also getting stuck."

A fourth truck is also reported to have been involved in the accident that left one person dead and others seriously injured.

"We are still trying to see if there might be more casualties in the vehicles that are badly damaged and have blocked the busy highway. The body of the deceased has been retrieved to Kilome Nursing home, with the injured rushed to the same hospital for treatment," he added.

Meanwhile, the National Police Service, in a statement on Friday, said trucks completely blocked the road.

"NPS is working with relevant agencies to restore normal traffic flow. Additional police officers have been deployed to the area and will take stern action against anyone violating traffic rules," said Police spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga.

Motorists have been urged to use alternative routes to ease congestion and enhance safety.

"Mombasa-bound traffic should consider using the Machakos-Wote-Makindu route while Nairobi-bound traffic can use the Makindu-Wote-Machakos route," he added.