Two drivers die after trailer and lorry collided near Langa'ta on the Southern Bypass

Scene of the accident along the Southern By-pass./HANDOUT

Two drivers were killed on Monday following a road accident along the Southern Bypass in Langata, Nairobi County.

The accident involved a trailer truck and a lorry that were heading in the same direction from Kikuyu, police and witnesses said.

Nairobi police boss George Seda said the accident was caused by wrongful overtaking by speeding vehicles, which reportedly smashed into each other from the sides.

“We lost two drivers in the accident. It also caused a huge traffic jam,” he said.

Both drivers died on the spot, and their bodies were taken to the mortuary. The area has been described as a notorious black spot that has claimed several lives, according to authorities’ reports.

Most victims in the area are pedestrians, including Kibra and Langata residents attempting to cross the busy highway while unaware of the danger.

The incident caused a long traffic snarl-up, disrupting logistical operations along the busy link road. Traffic police officers from Langata arrived to contain the situation.

Some motorists complained that gangs took advantage of the accident and traffic jam to steal from them while they were waiting. It took hours to clear the scene. Police later arrived and chased away the gangs that were harassing motorists.

Earlier, police said seven people were killed on Monday morning and on Sunday night in separate road accidents across the country. Police said the victims included three passengers, two pedestrians and two drivers.

At least 28 people were injured in the accidents, including eight passengers, eight riders, three pedestrians, three drivers and six pillion passengers.

The injured were rushed to hospitals pending investigations.

Police said fatal accidents have been rising despite efforts to address the problem. Officials said reckless overtaking, speeding and drunk driving remain among the leading causes of road accidents across the country, continuing to claim lives despite public safety campaigns by the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA).

Mechanical failures from poorly maintained vehicles, including worn tyres and faulty brakes, have also been identified as significant contributors to road crashes.

In addition to driver negligence, poor road conditions such as potholes, confusing signage and inadequate lighting make travel increasingly hazardous, particularly at night.