Super Metro Continue Operating Despite NTSA Suspension
Super Metro, a widely recognized Nairobi matatu SACCO, caused confusion on Thursday by continuing to operate and transport passengers. This is despite having its license suspended by the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA).
The SACCO, which manages a fleet of over 500 minibuses serving routes such as Thika Road, Kikuyu, Juja, Ngong Road, and Kitengela, was ordered to halt operations. This is for failing to comply with public transport regulations. However, several of its vehicles were still seen operating on major roads. This is raising concerns about the effectiveness of the NTSA’s enforcement of the suspension.
Why Super Metro is Still Operating Despite NTSA Ban?
Despite the NTSA’s clear directive to traffic police to impound any vehicles found in operation and an appeal to passengers to avoid boarding Super Metro minibuses, the vehicles continued to ferry commuters on key routes. This has prompted questions about the enforcement of NTSA orders and whether the directive was being fully implemented by the relevant authorities.
The suspension of Super Metro’s license follows a tragic incident in which one of the SACCO’s matatus was involved in the death of a passenger along Thika Road, igniting public outrage over the conduct of matatu crews.
How Gilbert Died on Super Metro and NTSA Reaction
According to police in Ruiru, Gilbert Thuku Kimani was allegedly pushed out of a moving Super Metro minibus. This was done by both the conductor and driver after a dispute over Ksh 30 fare balance. Gilbert had boarded the matatu at Kahawa Wendani for a trip to Thika but was reportedly unable to pay the full Ksh 80 fare. Instead, he offered Ksh 50, leading to a confrontation with the tout.
Eyewitnesses claim that with the help of the driver, the conductor forcibly ejected Gilbert from the vehicle near Kahawa Sukari. This led him to fall onto the road where he was run over by the matatu’s rear tire.
Shockingly, instead of stopping, the matatu crew allegedly fled the scene, leaving behind the critically injured passenger, who later succumbed to his injuries. This incident has fueled calls for stricter regulation of the public transport sector and harsher penalties for rogue operators.
Conclusion
As Gilbert’s family in Kandara, Murang’a County, grieves his loss, they are demanding justice. They are urging authorities to enforce tighter regulations within the matatu industry. This is to prevent similar tragedies from occurring in the future.
Also Read: NTSA suspends Super Metro.
