John Otieno Opiyo, the Trans Nzoia Critical Infrastructure Protection Unit (CIPU) Police Commander, has died following a road accident in Ndhiwa, Homa Bay County.
According to a police report filed under O/B 36/15/09/2023, the commander was conducting his normal duties within his rural home when he met his untimely demise.
A source with knowledge of the matter told Kenyans.co.ke that Opiyo had just wedded his wife last week when the tragedy occurred.
The matatu was heading towards Sori direction from Ndhiwa and upon reaching the scene of the accident, the driver of the matatu abruptly changed lanes and hit the oncoming vehicle, Toyota G-Touring, head-on.
The matatu driver veered off the road to the right side facing Ndhiwa direction.
As a result of the tragedy, Opiyo succumbed to injuries while on his way to Ndhiwa Sub-County hospital. Six people sustained injuries and were rushed to the said hospital for medical attention.
The matatu driver was rushed to Sori Lakeside hospital and admitted in serious condition. Both vehicles were towed to station yard and detained awaiting inspection with extensive damages. The deceased's body was removed to Kirindo Hospital Mortuary awaiting post-mortem.
Trans Nzoia governor George Natembeya, in a statement, said that Opiyo's departure left a big hole in the police service owing to his invaluable contributions to the security sector.
"His sudden departure leaves a deep void and we shall greatly miss his invaluable contributions to the security sector in Trans Nzoia County. He was a dependable, hardworking, and dedicated officer known for his unmatched wit and skills," he eulogised.
"To the family, friends, and colleagues of Opiyo, I extend my heartfelt condolences. During this period of bereavement, may you find the fortitude and strength to cope with this profound loss."
The case highlights the precarious situation facing motorists using Kenyan roads. According to the Kenya Demographic and Health Survey 2022 (KDHS) by the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS), Murang'a was ranked top among counties with the most dangerous roads with 365 deaths per 100,000 population.
Kisumu, West Pokot, Elgeyo Marakwet and Vihiga followed with 307, 264, 261 and 247 respectively.
Nairobi closed the top six list with 238 fatalities recorded out of a population of 100,000. Other counties that recorded high fatalities included Kiambu (227), Laikipia (212), Homa Bay (208) and Isiolo (201).
From the data, urban areas recorded the highest number of fatalities as a result of traffic injuries with 190, as compared to rural areas with 107.
Following the spike in cases, the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) kicked off a sensitisation campaign to urge motorists to adhere to traffic laws.
The campaign focused on highlighting mistakes that motorists are prone to making on the road such as speeding, lane indiscipline, drunk driving and distracted driving.
Others include failure to wear protective clothing such as helmet and failure to use available pedestrian walks.
