NAIROBI, Kenya – Traffic along the busy Nairobi-Mombasa Highway ground to a halt on Thursday morning after a deadly crash involving three trailers blocked both lanes near the Jet Inn area between Emali and Masimba.
According to the National Police Service (NPS), the collision occurred on a narrow railway bridge, completely obstructing traffic in both directions and stranding hundreds of motorists for hours in a developing gridlock.
The police confirmed that the crash was fatal but did not immediately release the number of casualties.
In a statement, NPS spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga said additional officers had been deployed to the scene to manage traffic and assist in clearing the wreckage.
He warned that police would take stern action against any drivers violating traffic rules amid the congestion.
“We urge motorists to exercise patience and maintain lane discipline. Alternative routes are advised to ease the situation,” Nyaga said.
PRESS STATEMENT : TRAFFIC GRIDLOCK ALONG NAIROBI – MOMBASA HIGHWAY
Authorities advised Mombasa-bound drivers to use the Machakos–Wote–Makindu route, while those heading toward Nairobi were urged to take the Makindu–Wote–Machakos detour.
The Nairobi-Mombasa Highway is a key artery for commercial transport, connecting the port city of Mombasa to the capital and the interior.
Major accidents on this stretch frequently lead to economic losses due to delays in cargo movement and long-distance travel.
Efforts to clear the scene were ongoing with police urging travelers to remain cautious and follow updates from official channels.
The incident highlights persistent concerns over safety on Kenya’s highways, where crashes involving long-haul trucks and trailers are common.
