Nine killed in road accidents, most of them pedestrians

NAIROBI, KENYA: Nine people were Tuesday killed in separate road accidents in the country amidst spirited campaigns to reduce the incidents.

Of the deceased, six were pedestrians killed in Nairobi, police said. The victims were hit and killed by speeding cars as they crossed at non-designated places.

At least ten others were injured in the other accidents that police said happened out of driving errors.

Traffic Commandant Charlton Muriithi said the pedestrians were killed in Pangani area, Buruburu, Kasarani and Mombasa Road.

"The problem is most of these pedestrians are dying while crossing at places they know is dangerous and suicidal. We will push to reduce the rate," said Muriithi.

He added some of the pedestrians were hit by motorcyclists in the city as he called for vigilance to ensure there is order on roads.

The traffic boss said their plans to introduce punitive laws against pedestrians crossing roads at non-designated areas are on course. Police plan to charge them with an offence of attempted suicide.

Previously, such suspects were charged with an offence of obstructing motorists.

Muriithi said it will be interpreted that one wanted to take his or her life since other than footbridges there are marked areas meant for road crossing.