MAKUENI, Kenya — Seven people have died while more than 30 others sustained serious injuries after a matatu carrying about 50 passengers crashed in Makueni County on Friday night.
At the time of the initial response, emergency teams were still carrying out rescue and scene-clearance operations, making it difficult to establish the full extent of the casualties.
Several injured passengers were evacuated to Makueni County Referral Hospital for treatment, while others were taken to Matiliku Sub-County Hospital, depending on the severity of their injuries and the availability of emergency care.
The crash occurred at night, with emergency responders working to rescue passengers trapped in the vehicle and clear the scene.
The identities of those who died and the exact circumstances surrounding the accident had not been immediately established.
Police and other emergency response teams are expected to investigate the cause of the crash and provide further details on the incident.
The accident comes amid continued concerns over road safety and the risks posed by overcrowding and other safety violations involving public service vehicles.
Authorities are expected to issue an updated account of the casualties and the condition of those receiving treatment as rescue and recovery operations continue.