Editor's Review

NTSA has condemned a stunt captured in a viral video showing a passenger dangerously hanging onto a moving matatu. 

The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has condemned a stunt captured in a viral video showing a passenger dangerously hanging onto a moving matatu along Magadi Road. 

In a statement on Thursday, September 4, NTSA said the stunt was reckless and could have easily resulted in a fatal fall in the event of sudden braking, sharp turns, or acceleration. 

“The stunt was reckless and extremely dangerous. Sudden braking, sharp turns, or acceleration can easily throw the passenger off balance, leading to a fatal fall,” read part of the statement.

The authority emphasized that passengers, including the conductor, must always use the seats and seatbelts for their safety.

Following the incident, NTSA said the driver of the Matatu was arrested and presented in court, and charged with various traffic offences.

Screengrab image of a passenger hanging on a moving matatu. 

The driver was granted a cash bail of Ksh100,000 with an alternative court bond of Ksh300,000.

“The driver was arrested, presented in court, and charged with various traffic offences. He was granted a cash bail of Ksh100,000 or a court bond of Ksh300,000. We sincerely thank the public for reporting the incident,” NTSA stated.

This comes days after NTSA condemned the reckless behavior of a matatu driver who was captured on video dangerously navigating through traffic along the Thika Superhighway.

In the footage, the vehicle is seen speeding through traffic as passengers stick their heads out of the windows while the matatu drives uncomfortably close to other vehicles.

NTSA termed the incident dangerous and unacceptable, warning that such actions put both passengers and other road users at risk. 

"This is unacceptable! A split-second lapse in concentration or a poor decision by the driver can have devastating consequences, leading to fatalities or serious injuries. This underscores the critical importance and dire need for constant vigilance and adherence to road safety practices for both drivers and passengers," the statement read.

The authority also confirmed that enforcement officers have been notified, and action will be taken against the driver responsible for the vehicle.