12 Dead After Fuel Tanker Exploded As They Siphoned Fuel

12 people have been burnt beyond recognition and 11 others seriously injured after a fuel tanker burst into flames as they tried to siphon fuel along Kisumu – Busia Road. The 11 injured include children who have been admitted to various hospitals.

The fuel tanker overturned at around 11.45 pm on Saturday. Residents rushed to the scene with containers to fetch fuel only for the tanker to explode into a ball of fire. More than 20 people were engulfed in it, 12 dying on the spot.

The fuel tanker was avoiding a head-on collision with another truck ferrying milk. The milk truck veered off the road to avoid plunging into the tanker that was heading to Busia. The tanker hit the tail of the truck, rolled, and emptied the fuel on the road.

The accident has been confirmed by Gem Sub-County Police Commander Chacha Charles. “Moments later, the tanker burst into flames. We have counted at least 12 bodies at the scene. 11 casualties were rushed to the nearby Yala Sub-County hospital.” he said.

The high cost of living and high level of poverty among Kenyans has pushed many to the edge forgetting about their own safety with the hope of getting the next meal.