Super Metro Matatu Driver in Custody After Passenger Pushed to Death Over Ksh.30 Fare Shortfall
A Super Metro matatu driver has been taken into custody by Ruiru police in Kiambu County, following the death of a passenger who was reportedly ejected from the moving vehicle.
This tragic event has ignited public outrage, specifically regarding how the matatu crew, operating on Thika Road, forced a passenger out due to insufficient fare.
The disturbing images of the passenger, Gilbert Thuku Kimani, allegedly pushed from the moving matatu, have provoked widespread anger and condemnation.
The matatu, with registration number KDL 125N, was driven by David Nderitu on the day of the incident. Reports indicate that David and a tout, part of the matatu’s crew, purportedly pushed Gilbert Thuku Kimani from the vehicle, resulting in his death.
The incident occurred along Thika Road at Kahawa Sukari. Gilbert had boarded the matatu from Kahawa Wendani, intending to travel to Thika.
According to witnesses, Gilbert was expected to pay Ksh.80 for the fare, but he only possessed Ksh.50. A dispute arose between him and the tout, which ultimately led to Gilbert being pushed out of the vehicle by the tout.
After realizing what had transpired, the matatu sped away from the location. The police were promptly notified, leading to the matatu being seized and the driver being apprehended.
Ruiru Police Commander Charles Kibathi stated, “The vehicle was driven by David Nderitu, who failed to stop where one passenger fell, and he was overrun by the rear tyre and he succumbed.
We are appealing to those who were inside the vehicle to come out and give us statements on what happened.” He further added, “So far the driver has been arrested and the vehicle impounded awaiting inspection…the driver will be charged for causing death by dangerous driving.”
The incident has deeply shocked Gilbert’s family. A somber atmosphere has enveloped their family home in Kandara, Murang’a County, as they struggle to cope with the loss of a man who was both a father and the family’s provider.
As the family grapples with this devastating news, their primary hope is that those responsible for this act will face the full force of the law, thereby putting an end to the reckless matatu culture that has become prevalent in the country.
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Super Metro Matatu Driver in Custody After Passenger Pushed to Death Over Ksh.30 Fare Shortfall
