By Gilbert Mmbaya
A tragic road accident in Gichaka village along the Nakuru–Ol Joro Orok road has left five Indian tourists dead and several others injured after their minibus plunged into a ditch on Monday, June 9.
The tourists were travelling from Maasai Mara to Nyahururu when the minibus brakes reportedly failed while descending a hill. According to preliminary reports, the vehicle lost control near Uhuru Comprehensive School as the driver attempted to negotiate a corner, causing it to roll multiple times before landing in a potato farm, its roof ripped off.
Nyandarua County Police Commander Stella Cherono confirmed that the five victims died on the spot, while the survivors—including the driver—were rushed to various hospitals for emergency treatment. Injured passengers were taken to Nyahururu County and Referral Hospital, St. Benedict Hospital in Nyahururu, and health facilities in Nakuru.
Survivor Recalls Moment of Impact
Speaking from his hospital bed, one survivor told Citizen TV that he heard a loud bang before losing consciousness. “I don’t remember much. One moment we were driving, and the next I woke up here,” he said.
Doctors at Nyahururu County Hospital have described the condition of several patients as critical, with most suffering from multiple injuries and requiring urgent care.
So far, 25 tourists have been accounted for, though officials are still working to confirm the full passenger manifest and establish the identities of all those involved.
Brake Failure Suspected
Police and transport officials are investigating the cause of the accident, with initial indications pointing to mechanical failure—specifically faulty brakes. Authorities are also examining whether the vehicle met the required safety standards for long-distance travel, particularly in hilly terrain.
Diplomatic and Government Response
The Indian High Commission in Nairobi has been informed and is working closely with local authorities to assist affected families, including coordinating repatriation efforts for the deceased.
Nyandarua County officials have expressed condolences to the victims’ families and pledged to support the injured. “This is a tragic loss. We mourn with the families and assure them of our support during this difficult time,” said a county spokesperson.
Calls for Safer Roads
The incident has sparked renewed calls for stringent enforcement of vehicle maintenance standards and driver training, especially for tour operators transporting foreign visitors across Kenya’s scenic but often treacherous routes.
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