This archive report was first published on 19 July 2021.
On January 16, 2021, Siaya Senator James Orengo and Gem MP Elisha Odhiambo visited Gem, where a devastating fuel tanker explosion had occurred.
As of Saturday night, the death toll from the fire had risen to 15, with only three bodies identified.
MP Odhiambo called on petroleum firms to provide aid to the families and raise awareness about the risks associated with petroleum products.
He also urged President Uhuru Kenyatta to assist the citizens affected by the tragedy.
Among the victims were three women, including one who was seven months pregnant, and several others who suffered serious burns while attempting to siphon fuel from the tanker.
Residents of Malanga village in Gem were left reeling from the incident, with some relatives bursting into tears as they struggled to find out the fate of their missing kin.
Twenty-four survivors were hospitalized in nearby facilities, while others were transferred to Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital in Kisumu.
According to Gem OCPD Mosera Chacha, the accident occurred when the tanker collided with a lorry carrying milk, and members of the public attempted to siphon petrol from the open compartment.
However, a resident hacked open the other compartment, causing a spark that ignited the fire.
Chacha stated that the fire was contained with the help of fire engines from Busia County.
Leaders from the region, led by MP Odhiambo, sent their condolences to the bereaved families but expressed regret over the delayed response from authorities.
The accident serves as a painful reminder of similar incidents in the past, including one in 2016 where 30 people died in Naivasha after attempting to siphon oil from a tanker.
