Traffic snarl-up on Thika Road after Land Cruiser bursts into flames near Muthaiga footbridge

The Land Cruiser on fire along Thika Road on February 24, 2026. /HANDOUT

The Land Cruiser on fire along Thika Road on February 24, 2026. /HANDOUT

There was panic along Thika Road on Tuesday evening after a Toyota Land Cruiser caught fire near the Muthaiga footbridge, causing a major snarl-up as emergency crews moved in to contain the blaze.

The incident occurred on the busy highway, one of Nairobi’s main transport corridors, significantly affecting traffic flow for hours.

Motorists were advised to exercise caution and seek alternative routes as firefighters battled the flames. Police said the fire completely destroyed the vehicle before it was put out.

The Land Cruiser on fire along Thika Road on February 24, 2026. /HANDOUT

The Land Cruiser on fire along Thika Road on February 24, 2026. /HANDOUT

Nairobi police boss George Seda confirmed that no injuries were reported in the incident.

“We have dispatched experts to the scene to investigate the cause of the fire,” he said.

The wreckage of the vehicle was later towed to Muthaiga Police Station, where it will be held pending investigations.

Authorities urged motorists using Thika Road to remain vigilant and adhere to traffic directives issued at the scene as investigations continue. Witnesses said they saw the driver who was alone in the car jump out as it slowed down and burst into flames.