The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has confirmed the arrest of a driver following a viral video showing the passenger clinging to the vehicle’s door as it navigated traffic.
In a statement on Thursday, September 4, NTSA termed the stunts “reckless and extremely dangerous”, warning that sudden braking or change of direction could lead to a fatal fall.
“The stunt was reckless and extremely dangerous,” NTSA said in a statement. “Sudden braking, sharp turns, or acceleration can easily throw the passenger off balance, leading to a fatal fall.”
NTSA Crackdown on Matatu Stunts
The matatu driver, according to NTSA, was arraigned in court and charged with multiple traffic offenses. He was released on a cash bail of KSh. 100,000 or a court bond of Ksh 300,000.
“We sincerely thank the public for reporting the incident,” NTSA added.
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Online Reactions
In the viral video, a man was seen pulling stunts on the moving vehicle that plies the Nairobi CBD-Rongai route to spark concerns of road safety.
The video quickly drew widespread reactions online. Road Safety Awareness Initiative (Kenya) applauded the NTSA’s response, posting on X.
“Thank you, @NTSA_Kenya, for taking swift action on this incident. Zero tolerance for lawbreakers is the only way to reduce road fatalities and keep everyone safe on our roads.”
Others criticized the agency’s broader enforcement efforts.
“Fatal fall will be his problem,” Cand @marls_cand posted posted. “He is an adult who knows what’s right and wrong like all the corrupt incompetent NTSA officers.”
Also Read: NTSA Responds to Complaints Over Extra Charges on eCitizen Platform
NTSA has ramped up enforcement efforts in recent months amid rising concerns over matatu-related accidents and stunts that endanger both passengers and pedestrians.
Report on Accidents in Kenya
According to the report, 5,856 people were involved in road crashes between January 1 and March 31, marking a decrease of 1,908 cases compared to the same period in 2024.
Of those involved, 1,139 people lost their lives, a slight drop from the 1,166 fatalities recorded during the same period last year.
Another 3,316 individuals sustained serious injuries, while 2,693 suffered minor injuries.
Pedestrians remained the most vulnerable road users, with 420 fatalities reported, down from 434 in the first quarter of 2024.
189 passengers died in various crashes during the period, while 83 drivers lost their lives, both figures lower than the 243 passengers and 94 drivers killed in the same period last year.
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