Senator Mungatana slams county over delayed response to Kipini sea tragedy
Speaking at Kipini beach, Senator Mungatana accused the county government of neglecting its duty by refusing to release or fuel its boats to support volunteer rescuers.
Tana River Senator Danson Mungatana has criticised the county government for failing to act swiftly following a recent sea tragedy that left one fisherman missing.
The Senator questioned why the county barred its boats from helping in the ongoing search efforts.
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The incident occurred when two young men ventured into the deep sea near Kipini to transport divers for lobster harvesting.
Their boat is reported to have capsized after being struck by strong waves. One of them survived by clinging to a gas cylinder, but his colleague, identified as 28-year-old Mohamed Mbwana, has been missing for three days.
Speaking at Kipini beach, Senator Mungatana accused the county government of neglecting its duty by refusing to release or fuel its boats to support volunteer rescuers.
“Unfortunately, a huge wave struck and their boat capsized. One of them survived by clinging to a gas cylinder, but Mohamed Mbwana drowned. It has been three days since the search for his body began, yet the county has refused to release its boats or provide fuel for private boats that volunteered to assist in the operation,” he said.
He contrasted the county’s response with that of Mombasa County, which weeks ago coordinated a swift rescue after a competition boat carrying 22people capsized, saving 19 lives and recovering the remaining bodies.
“Where is our emergency fund? Has the fisheries department lost its sense of humanity?” Mungatana asked, calling on the county administration to take responsibility during maritime disasters.
He sent condolences to the bereaved family and urged the county to prioritise maritime safety and rescue preparedness.
Residents who joined the search efforts voiced frustration over the lack of county support.
They complained they have been using their own small boats and fuel for days now, noting the waves are strong.
Another resident appealed for better disaster response measures. “If this had happened in another county, help would have arrived immediately. Our people deserve the same attention and care,” he said.
Community leaders have since urged the county to work closely with beach management units and fishermen to establish a rapid response system for future sea emergencies
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