Transport CS Murkomen suspends operations of Modern Coast Bus Company

"Following the 28th December accident, I have directed NTSA to suspend all operations of the Modern Coast bus company with immediate effect, as investigations into the accident continue," said Murkomen in a statement issued on Friday.

Murkomen said the accident which occurred at River Masosa at Makutano Junction in Kisii County "raises concerns about the state of operations and safety levels" at the bus company.

The Transport CS noted that the accident came just a few months after another one involving a Modern Coast bus where 36 people were left dead.

"This raises concerns about the state of operations and safety levels at the bus company coming just months after the River Nithi accident that occurred on 24th July 2022, leaving 36 people dead and many others injured," said the CS.

He added: "The July accident led to the suspension of the license of the bus company for three months. The operations were allowed to resume in November this year after the company complied with all the conditions that had been set for them."

Following the suspension of the Modern Coast bus company license, CS Murkomen has instructed the company to ensure that all passengers who had booked with them are facilitated to allow for safe and seamless travel to their destinations.

The CS reiterated that the government will continue to take stern action on any violations of road safety measures.

"Now that the festive season is almost over and passengers are travelling back to their places of work, we will double down on our efforts to ensure all motorists adhere to these measures," said the CS.

He added: "As a Ministry, we take the matter of road safety seriously and will not hesitate to take stern action against anyone flouting traffic rules in our efforts to preserve and protect the lives of Kenyans."