Matatu Driver Charged Over Fatal Enterprise Road Crash That Killed Three Passengers

The driver of a matatu that overturned along Enterprise Road in Nairobi in June, killing three passengers and injuring two others, has been charged with causing death by dangerous driving.

Sammy Murigi Maina appeared before Magistrate Paul Mutai following his arrest, reportedly after nearly two months of evading police.

According to the charge sheet, Maina faces three counts of causing death by dangerous driving, contrary to Section 46 of the Traffic Act, Cap 403 of the Laws of Kenya.

Prosecution Details of the Fatal Crash

The prosecution alleges that on June 3, 2026, at approximately 8pm, Maina was driving an Isuzu minibus registration number KDU 887C, operated by Risen Sacco, along Enterprise Road opposite KCB Bank in Nairobi County.

The charge sheet states that Maina allegedly drove the vehicle recklessly and dangerously, lost control while negotiating a roundabout and struck the kerb. The impact allegedly caused the minibus to overturn and land across the road.

Three passengers identified in the charge sheet Charles Brandy Wahome, Tamia Kalekye Nyambura and Edwin Kago are alleged to have died at the scene.

The prosecution also alleges that two other passengers, Eugene Ongundi and Dominic Mulwa, sustained bodily injuries in the crash.

Additional Charges Over Driving and Vehicle Condition

In addition to the three counts relating to the deaths, Maina faces two counts of driving a motor vehicle on a public road without due care and attention, contrary to Section 49(1) of the Traffic Act.

The charges relating to the alleged injuries concern passengers Ongundi and Mulwa.

The court was also presented with a separate charge alleging that Maina drove an un-roadworthy motor vehicle, contrary to Section 55(1), as read with Section 58(1) of the Traffic Act.

Alleged Vehicle Defects Listed in Court

The charge sheet lists several alleged defects involving the matatu, including:

1. An obstructed emergency exit.
2. Compromised passenger headroom allegedly caused by multimedia screens.
3. Modified passenger seats.
4. Unsecured power inverters in the driver's cabin.
5. Dark reflective tint on passenger windows.
6. A modified dashboard allegedly obstructing the driver's view of the road.

The allegations form part of the prosecution's case and have yet to be tested through a full trial.

Reports of Dangerous Matatu Manoeuvres

The case comes amid widespread reports that the matatu was allegedly involved in dangerous manoeuvres commonly known as "manyoka" shortly before the crash.

Manyoka refers to weaving or zigzag driving, a practice associated with dangerous road behaviour. The reported allegations have added to public concern over passenger safety and compliance with road traffic regulations.

Court to Rule on Cash Bail

Following his appearance in court, Maina was ordered to remain in remand for five days.

The court is expected to deliver its ruling on his application for cash bail after the five-day remand period.

The charges remain allegations, and the accused is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in accordance with the law.