Drama as Kenyans Risk Their Lives to Fetch Fuel From Overturned Tanker

A group of Kenyans risked their lives on September 27 by fetching fuel from an overturned petrol tanker along the Kandui-Malaba Highway.

According to Sikika Road Safety, the tanker lost control and overturned, prompting members of the public, including children, to gather at the scene and collect the leaking fuel.

Sikika Road Safety raised concern over the incident, warning that petrol can ignite from a small spark and cause a deadly fire.

The road safety organisation called on the National Police Service to intervene and secure the area before people suffer serious injuries or lose their lives.

“Petrol needs only a spark and they will burn to ashes. We will cry and move on and that is a FACT,” Sikika Road Safety warned.

Sikika Road Safety Warns Public

The organisation also acknowledged the economic hardships that may push people to take such risks but urged the public to understand the danger involved.

“The economy is bad, we rather die trying, but we will tell you this for free,” Sikika Road Safety said.

Also Read:EPRA Issues Safety Guidelines After Rise in Petroleum Tanker, LPG Accidents

Sikika Road Safety further warned that the situation could turn into a major disaster if the fuel catches fire, especially with many people gathered around the tanker.

The organisation urged authorities to act quickly and keep members of the public away from the overturned tanker

Recent Eldoret Fuel Tanker Explosion

The warning comes days after a similar incident along the Eldoret-Webuye Highway ended in deaths and serious injuries.

On Thursday, September 17, a fuel tanker overturned near Paul Boit High School in Turbo, Uasin Gishu County, after a collision with a saloon car.

Also Read:Several Feared Dead as Tanker Explodes Along Eldoret-Webuye Road

Members of the public rushed to the scene, with some attempting to siphon fuel from the tanker. The tanker later exploded.

Three people were eventually confirmed dead, while 23 victims were taken to Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital for treatment. Several victims suffered severe burns, with some requiring intensive care.

Uasin Gishu County officials subsequently urged the public to stay away from fuel tanker crash scenes, warning that crowds can obstruct emergency responders and expose themselves to dangerous fires.

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