Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has shed more light on the road accident involving Kenya Ports Authority Managing Director Captain William Ruto, confirming that the crash occurred after his vehicle rammed into a stationary trailer with no visible warning signs in Taita Taveta County.
Speaking on Saturday, Murkomen said the absence of proper signage on the stalled trailer may have played a role in the collision, which happened on Friday evening as the KPA boss travelled with his family.
“As I was preparing to come to Mombasa on Friday, I heard the news that our brother, who is the MD of Kenya Ports, was involved in an accident, and that is why I rushed here. He was travelling with five members of his family when his daughter sadly passed,” Murkomen explained.
The CS confirmed that Captain Ruto is in stable condition after undergoing medical checks, even as the family mourns the loss of his daughter following the crash.
“Following comprehensive checks by the doctors, he has been confirmed to be stable. I would like to urge all those travelling to be careful, especially at this time around the easter festivities.”
Murkomen spoke after visiting the injured KPA boss in hospital, where he was accompanied by Bomet Senator Hillary Sigei. The CS had been in Mombasa on a security assessment tour with top police commanders, including DCI Director Mohamed Amin and Deputy Inspector General Gilbert Masengeli, when he received news of the accident. Coast Regional Commander Ali Nuno was also present during the briefing.
At the same time, Murkomen announced plans by the government to roll out digital operations hubs and CCTV surveillance systems in six major towns, including Mombasa, as part of efforts to strengthen security and improve police response.
“We are also rolling out digital operations hubs and CCTV surveillance across six major towns, including Mombasa, to create a nationwide security network, among other reforms geared at enhancing operational efficiency and boosting service delivery to the public.”
He further urged motorists to remain cautious on the roads, especially during the Easter period, as heavy rains and rising cases of road accidents continue to pose a risk across the country.
Meanwhile, the National Police Service has also called on road users to observe traffic rules and exercise patience, particularly in areas affected by flooding and poor visibility.