The Long-Distance Drivers and Conductors Association (LODCA) has alleged that there are plans by the management of Classic Coach bus, which was involved in an accident that resulted in 15 fatalities, to destroy evidence.
In a statement on Thursday, January 18, the association indicated that the bus company was planning to remove the wreckage of the bus from police custody.
According to LODCA, the removal of the wreckage will mean possible concealment of vital evidence for the case.
The case against the bus company was officially filed in the Molo court, and the driver of the ill-fated bus detained in police custody pending investigations.
“It has come to our attention that there are alarming indications that the management of Classic Coach Bus is contemplating tampering with critical evidence related to the ongoing case.
“The company allegedly plans to remove the wreckage of the bus from police custody, raising concerns about the potential concealment of vital information crucial to the investigation,” a statement from the association read in part.
Also Read: Uproar as Driver in Accident That Killed 15 Enters Court in Critical Condition
Accusations and Evidence Against Classic Coach Bus
LODCA also indicated that the fleet of buses belonging to the company had violated several National Transport and Safety Association (NTSA) laws.
The association highlighted that the management allowed their fleet to operate buses that are mechanically unsound and, therefore, deemed road unworthy.
Classic Coach Bus Service is also accused of failing to adhere to the NTSA requirement of having two drivers on long-distance trips.
“In light of these developments, LODDCA urgently calls upon the National Police Service to resist any attempts to release the bus wreckage until the case is heard in court.
Also Read: 15 People Killed in Highway Accident Between Bus and Shuttle
“The preservation of this crucial evidence is paramount to ensuring a fair and just legal process. We expect the authorities to uphold the law and prevent any interference that could compromise the investigation,” added the statement.
NTSA on The Accident
NTSA put blame on the driver for the accident that occurred on January 9, indicating that the crash was a result of dangerous overtaking by the Classic Kings of Congo bus driver.
“Preliminary crash analysis indicates that the incident is attributed to lane indiscipline and dangerous overtaking on the part of the Bus driver leading to a head on collision with the Northways Sacco matatu,” read part of NTSA statement.
The driver was charged with 1 count of contravening the use of insurance, 1 charge of reckless driving and another charge for carrying 41 uninsured passengers.
However, he denied the charges and was released on a Ksh.1 million bond, with the matter set to be mentioned on January 29.
