10 people injured as Tahmeed bus rams into matatu in Mombasa
According to eyewitnesses, the brakes failed, causing the bus to roll backwards and collide with a matatu from the Miritini Sacco that was ferrying passengers to Mikindani.
At least ten individuals sustained serious injuries and were rushed to Coast General Teaching and Referral Hospital after a 52-seater Tahmeed bus was involved in a late-night crash at Kibarani, Mombasa County.
The incident occurred around 1 am on Saturday when the bus, which was heading uphill from Mwembe Tayari, reportedly experienced mechanical failure while on the Kibarani Flyover.
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According to eyewitnesses, the brakes failed, causing the bus to roll backwards and collide with a matatu from the Miritini Sacco that was ferrying passengers to Mikindani.
One of the survivors, who was seated at the back of the matatu, recounted the harrowing experience.
"There weren’t many of us in the matatu at the time. I was seated at the back, peering through the window to check on the traffic, when I saw someone jump out of the bus. That’s when I also decided to jump out."
He added that a group of boda boda riders had encroached onto the bus lane, worsening the situation.
"Unfortunately, the bus veered off and knocked down some of the motorcyclists. Other vehicles coming from behind didn’t have time to stop either."
He said those seated at the front of the matatu, including the driver, were the most severely injured.
"One of the victims is my close friend. Some passengers in another matatu that rammed into the bus from behind were also injured. We’re just thankful that no lives were lost."
Chaani MCA Frankline Makanga also visited the scene and called for greater responsibility from traffic authorities and vehicle owners.
"We are grateful that there were no fatalities. But this could have been prevented if those responsible had done their jobs. We urge NTSA, traffic officers, and vehicle owners to ensure all vehicles undergo regular servicing," the MCA said.
"This accident could have been avoided. We must take extra caution, especially now that we are in the rainy season and traffic is heavier than usual. Drivers need to be disciplined and follow traffic regulations."
The MCA further pointed out that Kibarani has long been known as a blackspot. "Installing speed bumps would help reduce speeding, especially since people also cross the road here and there is no foot bridge. Cars move very fast, and it’s dangerous."
He urged the relevant road agencies to take immediate steps to expand the road and implement safety measures to protect road users.
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