Police have launched a manhunt for a driver who was caught carrying 31 high school students in a 14-seater matatu. The incident occurred during an ongoing safety enforcement operation on the roads, as reported by the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA).
According to the NTSA statement dated Saturday, March 30, the overloaded matatu was stopped, and authorities discovered the alarming situation. The driver, however, managed to flee the scene before being apprehended.
In response to the violation, the students had to be placed in other vehicles to ensure their safe transportation to school. The NTSA confirmed that the matatu, originally designed to accommodate 14 passengers, was carrying 31 students from Tharaka Nithi County.
“The vehicle has been towed to the police station for further action,” read the official statement. Authorities are actively working to locate and apprehend the driver responsible for this dangerous situation.
Traffic police officers and a team from NTSA during a road check along the Nairobi-Mombasa Highway on Wednesday, March 27, 2024 PHOTO NTSA
The NTSA emphasized its commitment to collaborating with the police to ensure that the driver is brought to justice. They also issued a stern warning to all those who flout traffic rules, emphasizing that such behavior would not be tolerated.
Additionally, schools were cautioned to exercise vigilance when organizing transportation for their students. The safety of children entrusted to drivers and school management remains a top priority, and adherence to regulations is crucial.
As investigations continue, concerned citizens and parents await further updates on this incident. The NTSA’s efforts underscore the importance of enforcing road safety measures to protect passengers, especially vulnerable students.
Notably, the Meru incident comes a day after NTSA released requirements that bus drivers should have while on the road.
They include a valid Road Service Licence (RSL), a valid inspection certificate, a functional speed limiter, a requisite DL class endorsement, and a valid PSV badge.
