Two police officers have died following a tragic head-on collision between a police vehicle and a trailer truck along the Webuye–Bungoma highway on Tuesday morning.
According to eyewitnesses, the officers were traveling in a patrol vehicle when it collided with the oncoming trailer near the Sikhendu area, a known black spot. The force of the impact crushed the police vehicle beyond recognition, instantly killing both officers on board.
Bungoma County Police Commander Francis Kooli confirmed the incident and stated that investigations are underway to determine the cause of the crash. Preliminary reports suggest that poor visibility and possible brake failure may have contributed to the accident.
“We lost two brave officers in the line of duty. It is a painful reminder of the dangers our officers face daily, both from criminal threats and road hazards,” Kooli said.
The trailer driver sustained minor injuries and was taken into custody for questioning. Authorities are also reviewing CCTV footage from nearby businesses to reconstruct the scene and determine liability.
The bodies of the deceased officers were taken to Bungoma County Referral Hospital Mortuary, as arrangements for their identification and burial proceed.
Road accidents involving law enforcement vehicles have been on the rise in Kenya, prompting calls for stricter maintenance checks and better driver safety training. The National Police Service has yet to release the names of the officers pending notification of next of kin.