A tragic incident unfolded on the Thika Superhighway near Juja town after a 33-seater Lopha Sacco bus was set ablaze by angry residents following a fatal accident. According to reports, the bus lost control and hit a pedestrian, killing him on the spot.
The accident quickly attracted the attention of boda boda riders and nearby residents, who confronted the driver. What began as a heated exchange soon escalated into chaos as the mob attacked the driver before setting the matatu on fire.
Videos from the scene showed the vehicle engulfed in flames as onlookers stood at a distance, watching helplessly. The inferno completely destroyed the bus, leaving behind a charred metallic shell. Fortunately, no injuries were reported from the fire itself.
The incident caused major transport disruptions along the busy Thika Superhighway, a vital route connecting Nairobi’s Central Business District (CBD) to Kiambu County. Motorists were forced to divert to alternative routes as police officers rushed to the scene to manage traffic and contain the situation.
Upon arrival, police cordoned off the area and began investigations. Residents were urged to stay away from the scene as officers assessed the extent of the damage.
The latest incident has reignited debate over rising cases of mob justice, particularly among boda boda operators and local residents, who often retaliate violently after road accidents. Authorities have condemned such actions, emphasizing that vandalism and arson only worsen situations that require lawful intervention.
Notably, a similar event occurred two months ago, on September 1, when a Super Metro bus was also set on fire along the same highway in Juja after fatally knocking down a boda boda rider.
Police have since launched an investigation into the latest case as efforts continue to restore calm and prevent further incidents of mob violence on Kenyan roads.
