Two Dead, 22 Hospitalised After Fuel Tanker Explosion Near Eldoret

Two people have been confirmed dead and 22 others admitted to hospital following a petroleum tanker explosion along the Eldoret-Turbo Road in Uasin Gishu County.

The incident occurred near Paul Boit Secondary School on Thursday night after the tanker was involved in an accident.

Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH) Chief Executive Officer Dr Philip Kirwa confirmed on Friday that 22 survivors had been admitted to the hospital following the explosion.

Police said the tanker was travelling from Eldoret when it lost control and overturned after colliding with another vehicle travelling from the opposite direction.

Residents Warned Against Siphoning Fuel

Authorities said members of the public gathered around the tanker following the accident, with some reportedly attempting to collect fuel from the overturned vehicle.

The tanker later caught fire, leaving several people with serious burn injuries.

Uasin Gishu County Police Commander Wilberforce Sicharani confirmed that two bodies had been recovered as authorities continued assessing the scene.

Police have warned the public against approaching or attempting to siphon fuel from tankers involved in accidents because of the high risk of fire and explosions.

The scene has since been cleared and traffic along the road restored. Investigations are continuing to establish the circumstances surrounding the accident and subsequent fire.

The incident adds to previous tragedies in Kenya involving crowds gathering around overturned fuel tankers, despite repeated warnings from emergency and security agencies about the dangers involved.