The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
A Super Metro matatu driver has been arrested in Ruiru, Kiambu County, following the death of a passenger who was allegedly pushed out of a moving vehicle due to a fare dispute.
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The incident, which occurred along Thika Road, has sparked public outrage as it is claimed the matatu crew forced the passenger out for not having enough fare.
Disturbing images of the victim, reportedly pushed from the moving matatu, have caused widespread anger and condemnation.
The vehicle involved, with the registration number KDL 125N, was being driven by David Nderitu at the time. According to reports, both David and a matatu tout pushed Gilbert Thuku Kimani out of the vehicle, resulting in his fatal injuries.
The incident took place at Kahawa Sukari, with Gilbert boarding the matatu at Kahawa Wendani on his way to Thika. Witnesses claim Gilbert owed Ksh.80 for the fare but only had Ksh.50. This led to an argument with the tout, during which Gilbert was pushed out of the vehicle. Upon realizing what had happened, the driver sped off, and the police were alerted. The matatu was later impounded, and the driver arrested.
Ruiru Police Commander Charles Kibathi confirmed that David Nderitu failed to stop when the passenger fell and was run over by the rear tire, leading to his death. He appealed to other passengers for statements regarding the incident.
So far, the driver has been arrested, and the vehicle is being inspected. He will face charges of causing death by dangerous driving.
The tragic incident has left Gilbert’s family in shock, particularly his relatives in Kandara, Murang’a County, who are struggling to cope with the loss of a man who was both a father and the family’s main provider. The family hopes that those responsible will face full legal consequences and that this will help curb the reckless behavior seen in the country’s matatu culture.
