9 injured as Chania bus plunge into Indian Ocean in Likoni, no fatalities reported

At least nine passengers were today morning injured as scores escaped death by a whisker after a passenger bus belonging to Chania Executive plunged into the Indian Ocean at the Likoni Ferry crossing channel today morning causing panic and traffic disruption at the busy channel.

According to emergency rescuers and first responders at the scene, nine people were injured seven of whom were treated at the scene while two others were taken to hospital. However, no fatalities were reported.

According to a statement from the Kenya Red Cross, nine people were injured in the incident.

“Nine people were injured; seven were treated at the scene, while two were taken to the hospital. The Kenya Red Cross also provided psychosocial support services.”  Kenya Red Cross said.

According to preliminary findings, the bus, registration number KCF 236V, lost control and overturned at the mainland ramp of the Likoni crossing, temporarily blocking part of the ramp used by landing ferries.

Also, the Kenya Ferry Services (KFS) said that brakes of the ill-fated bus failed as it climbed up hill from the ferry on the Likoni side.

The bus heading to Ukunda.

The incident caused major disruption at the busy channel, raising safety concerns for ferry operations.

The incident occurred at around 8.35 am today.

“Emergency services and recovery teams are currently on site to remove the vehicle from the operational area and restore normalcy on the ramp. However, the bus has partially blocked the ramp posing challenges for the landing of two ferries currently.” The Kenya Ferry Services (KFS) said in a statement.

Customers are urged to remain patient as efforts to clear the ramp are underway,” KFS stated.

KFS urged commuters to remain patient while efforts to remove the overturned bus and clear the ramp continued.

The accident brought back memories of past incidents at the Likoni channel, which has a long history of accidents and tragedies, sparking renewed debate about safety at the crossing.

In a similar incident in 2021, a Pollmans Tours and Safaris bus slid off the ramp while attempting to board MV Jambo due to heavy rains in the area.

Fortunately, the driver and his assistant were rescued, and the bus was salvaged. The incident raised questions about the condition of the ramps and the safety measures in place during adverse weather conditions.

Today’s mishap also reminded residents of the tragic death of Mariam Kigenda, 36, and her four-year-old daughter Amanda Mutheu.

On September 29, 2019, the two lost their lives when their car slid off MV Harambee midstream, sinking into the ocean.

It took 13 days to recover their vehicle and bodies, highlighting the operational challenges faced by rescue teams, including conflicts between Kenya Navy and private divers, which hindered the recovery process.