This archive report was first published on 18 July 2021.
On the night of July 17, 2021, a devastating fuel tanker accident occurred on the Kisumu-Busia Road in Gem, Siaya County, claiming the lives of 13 people and leaving 11 others injured.
The incident unfolded when a lorry ferrying milk collided with the fuel tanker, causing the tanker to swerve off the road and fall onto its side.
As the public rushed to siphon petrol from the tanker, a spark ignited, leading to a massive explosion that engulfed the area.
According to Gem OCPD Mosera Chacha, the fire was eventually contained with the assistance of fire engines from Busia County.
"The members of the public took advantage and went to siphon the petrol as one compartment of the tanker was open. Another resident realising the other compartment was closed and delaying them, opened it to enable them to siphon very fast before the police could arrive in the process it caused a spark and blew up," Chacha explained.
The tanker remains at the scene, while the lorry is currently at the Yala sub-county police station.
