The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has launched a sweeping multi-agency investigation following a horrific road accident along the Nyeri-Nyahururu corridor that left 15 people dead on Saturday, March 28.
In a statement issued Saturday evening, NTSA Director General Nashon Kondiwa described the incident as "deeply distressing," confirming that the authority is already working closely with hospitals to ensure dignified handling of the deceased and prompt treatment of the injured.
But beyond the immediate response, Kondiwa made it clear that the agency is now moving aggressively to uncover what went wrong — and to ensure those responsible face the full weight of the law.
"I want to be unequivocal: if these suspicions are confirmed, this was a preventable catastrophe," the Director General said.
The investigation, which involves forensic reconstruction of the crash scene, will include thorough inspections of the vehicles' roadworthiness and a detailed review of the driver's compliance with traffic laws. Authorities are also conducting an immediate audit of both the Public Service Vehicle (PSV) operator and the lorry owner involved, scrutinizing their adherence to safety and licensing standard.
In tandem with the probe, NTSA has announced stepped-up enforcement operations along the Nyeri-Nyahururu corridor and other major highways, with a particular focus on removing unroadworthy vehicles from the roads — especially those operating in commercial and public service sectors.
Kondiwa did not mince words when addressing the broader culture of impunity on Kenyan roads.
"Recklessness on our roads is not a mistake; it is a choice that has deadly consequences," he said. "We will ensure that any individual or entity found responsible through negligence or violation of traffic laws is held fully accountable."
The fatal crash has reignited public concern over road safety standards, particularly along the Nyeri-Nyahururu route, which has been the site of multiple serious accidents in recent years. As investigators work to piece together the exact sequence of events, the NTSA is urging motorists to exercise caution and comply with all traffic regulations.
Efforts to remove unsafe vehicles from major highways are already underway, with roadblocks and inspections being intensified in key locations, including parts of Vihiga County, where NTSA officials were spotted conducting checks as recently as Thursday.
The authority has promised that findings from the investigation will be made public once completed.
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