13 Dead as Fuel Tanker Bursts into Flames along Major Highway

Thirteen people died and scores others injured on Saturday night after a fuel tanker burst into flames along the Kisumu- Busia road.

According to Gem police boss Charles Chacha, the accident happened at Malanga village at around 10:45 pm.

Chacha further noted that the injured persons were taken to Yala sub-county hospital where they are currently receiving treatment.

According to Chacha, the accident occurred while a trailer was avoiding a head-on collision with the tanker.

"The trailer which was ferrying 20 tonnes of milk, veered off the road to avoid plunging into the tanker which was heading to Busia," he said.

Following the accident, members of the public rushed to the scene and started siphoning fuel, unfortunately, the tanker burst into flames, burning 12 people to death.

"The tanker hit the vehicle on the right rear side. As a result of the impact, it overturned on the extreme left side of the road.

"Moments later, the fuel tanker burst into flames. We have counted at least twelve bodies at the scene. Eleven casualties were rushed to the nearby Yala sub-county hospital for treatment," Chacha divulged.