Matatu crash kills 10, injures 10 others in Makueni County

Tragic accident claims ten lives on Kikima-Kali-Machakos road as overloaded matatu loses control, leaving others in critical condition.[Standard, File]

Ten people have died, while ten others have been rushed to Mbooni Sub-County Hospital following a self-involving accident at Kwa Mbisu along the Kikima-Kali-Machakos road in Mbooni, Makueni County.

According to Stanlaus Apwoka, Mbooni Deputy County Commissioner, the 14-seater matatu, which was carrying excess passengers, was headed to Machakos town from Kikima when the accident occurred.

“The matatu from Makos Sacco lost control before landing in a ditch,” Apwoka said in a statement.

An eyewitness reported that the driver tried to control the vehicle in vain, with some fears that it could have experienced brake failure while negotiating a corner.

Makueni Health Chief Officer Stephen Ndolo confirmed that they had received ten people at Mbooni Sub-County Hospital, where two were in critical condition and had been rushed to the theatre.

“We have dispatched additional blood to that facility, together with three more ambulances for any referrals,” Dr. Ndolo said.

Makueni Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jr., while condoling with the families of the deceased, has warned drivers against carrying excess passengers during this festive season.