Police tightens traffic enforcement on Mwea-Embu highway after Murubara tragedy

Mwea East Deputy County Commissioner Fred Ayieko on Wednesday said traffic police had been deployed along the busy highway to enforce traffic rules and curb reckless driving.

Ayieko spoke after meeting relatives of nine of the 10 victims at his offices in Mwea East. He said the driver of the parcel truck involved in the crash remains in custody at Wang’uru Police Station after a court granted police 14 days to hold him as investigations continue.

The file is expected to be forwarded to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) for directions.

Ayieko warned motorists, including boda boda and tuk-tuk operators, against violating traffic regulations, saying those found flouting the rules would face action.

The renewed enforcement comes amid concerns over the condition and use of the highway, with local leaders identifying Murubara as a road blackspot.

Ayieko said the government would continue repairing potholes and installing road signs along the highway as part of efforts to improve safety.

The families of the victims: Charity Wanjiru, Abigael Wangui, Purity Nyambura, Daisy Kanana, Rosaline Wangui, Collins Muturi, Risper Wagui, Faith Wanjiru and Bethesda Mutili, received Ksh900,000 donated by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki.

Mwea MP Mary Maingi also gave each family Ksh100,000 to support burial arrangements.

Maingi also warned the bereaved families to be cautious of individuals posing as insurance agents, saying some were taking advantage of relatives seeking compensation following the deaths.

The Murubara crash has renewed scrutiny of safety along the Mwea-Embu highway, with residents and local leaders now pressing for repairs, better traffic control and measures to protect pedestrians and other vulnerable road users.