The bus, which was traveling from Nairobi to Ukunda, was carrying several passengers when the incident happened, causing panic and a frantic rescue operation.
Reports indicate that the bus, identified as an Executive Bus, experienced mechanical failure shortly after crossing the Likoni Channel. It lost its brakes, causing the driver to lose control.
The bus careened backward, crashing into one of the ferries operating in the channel before plunging into the waters of the Indian Ocean. This horrifying moment was witnessed by many onlookers, some of whom immediately called for help.
According to Kenya Ferry Services, their team of divers quickly responded to the situation, working tirelessly to save the passengers.
So far, six passengers, all women, have been rescued from the bus. The rescue team has been lauded for their fast response, as they managed to pull these women out of the water before the situation worsened. However, the exact number of passengers aboard the bus remains unclear, and rescue efforts are still ongoing.
The rescue mission has been supported by members of the public who were present at the Likoni Ferry when the incident occurred. Videos from the scene show people crying for help, with one woman in particular pleading for the rescue of a child who was reportedly on board the bus. The atmosphere around the ferry has been tense as anxious family members and onlookers hope for more successful rescues.
Mike Sonko, a well-known politician, has praised the Kenya Ferry Services divers for their quick action in rescuing the six women from the bus. He shared updates through social media, confirming the rescue and offering words of encouragement to the rescue team.
Despite the heroic efforts of the rescue team, the situation has raised serious concerns about the safety of public transport vehicles, particularly those using the ferry services. The sudden mechanical failure that led to this tragedy has prompted questions about whether the vehicle was properly maintained and inspected before its journey. Many are now calling for stricter checks on PSV vehicles, especially those traveling long distances and using critical infrastructures like the Likoni Ferry.
Authorities have launched an investigation into the incident to determine the exact cause of the accident and whether it could have been prevented. The police and transport officials are working to gather more information about the bus, including its maintenance history and the condition of its brakes before the journey.
As rescue operations continue, authorities are urging the public to remain calm while they work to bring the situation under control. It is expected that more details will emerge in the coming days as investigators piece together what happened in the moments leading up to the crash.
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