Seven feared dead as popular 'Detat' matatu crashes while allegedly performing stunts

Seven people are feared dead following a horrific road accident involving the popular Komarock-based matatu, Detat, along Enterprise Road in Nairobi's Industrial Area.

The customized minibus, well known among Nairobi's matatu enthusiasts for its flashy design and entertainment appeal, was reportedly involved in a crash while allegedly performing dangerous stunts commonly referred to as "manyoka."

According to eyewitness accounts, the driver lost control of the vehicle while attempting risky maneuvers on the busy road, causing the matatu to overturn. The impact left several passengers trapped inside the wreckage, with multiple casualties reported and others sustaining injuries.

Images from the scene showed the heavily damaged vehicle lying on its side as emergency responders and members of the public rushed to assist the victims.

The accident sent shockwaves across social media, particularly among fans of Nairobi's vibrant matatu culture, where customized minibuses have become a popular urban phenomenon.

Popular cop, Sammy Ondimu Ngare, who shared photos of the aftermath on Facebook, expressed his condolences to the victims and their families.

"Last night, a vehicle representing Komarock 19C was involved in a tragic road accident along Enterprise Road opposite KCB Bank. Reports indicate that six people have been confirmed dead, while several others were trapped inside the vehicle following the crash. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families who have lost their loved ones and with those injured during this heartbreaking incident," he wrote.

He further noted that the tragedy serves as a reminder of the dangers associated with reckless driving and dangerous stunts on public roads.

Preliminary reports suggest the driver was attempting high-risk driving maneuvers before losing control of the matatu, raising fresh concerns about safety standards within sections of Nairobi's matatu industry.

The incident has also reignited debate about the growing culture of modified matatus, some of which have previously attracted criticism over reckless driving, dangerous passenger behavior, and disregard for traffic regulations.

The crash comes just weeks after another high-profile matatu, Raptor, associated with President William Ruto's youngest son, George Ruto, made headlines following a collision involving a motorcycle in Nairobi.