Super Metro matatu driver arrested after passenger pushed to his death over Ksh.30 fare deficit

Police in Ruiru, Kiambu County, have arrested a Super Metro matatu driver following the death of a passenger who was allegedly thrown off the moving vehicle.

The incident has caused public uproar over how the matatu crew which was operating along Thika Road, pushed a passenger from a matatu for lack of sufficient fare.

Disturbing images of the passenger who was allegedly pushed from the moving matatu has sparked anger and condemnation.

The matatu in question, registration number KDL 125N, was on the fateful day being driven David Nderitu.

It has been reported that David and a tout who was part of the crew in the matatu allegedly pushed Gilbert Thuku Kimani from the matatu, causing his death.

The incident happened along Thika Road at Kahawa Sukari. Gilbert had boarded the matatu from Kahawa Wendani headed to Thika.

Witnesses say Gilbert was to pay Ksh.80 as fare but he only had Ksh.50. An altercation ensued between him and the tout, leading to Gilbert being pushed out by the tout.

Upon realising what had happened, the matatu sped from the scene. Police were notified and the matatu was impounded and the driver arrested.

Ruiru Police Commander Charles Kibathi said: “The vehicle was driven by David Nderitu, who failed to stop where one passenger fell, and he was overran by the rear tyre and he succumbed. We are appealing to those who were inside the vehicle to come out and give us statements on what happened.”

“So far the driver has been arrested and the vehicle impounded awaiting inspection…the driver will be charged for causing death by dangerous driving.”

The incident has left Gilbert's family in shock. A sombre mood engulfed the family home in Kandara, Murang’a County, as the family tries to come to terms with the loss of a man who was a father and a bread winner.

As the family tries to comprehend this tragic news, their only hope is those behind the act will face the full wrath of the law and put an end to the wreck-less matatu culture being witnessed in the country.