Police in Kabati have launched an intensive search operation after a middle-aged boda boda rider was swept away by the flooded Ithekethe River on Friday night.
According to Kaui Senior Chief Thomas Munyao, the tragic incident occurred at around 9.30pm when the rider attempted to cross the river while travelling from Kabati Market to Tulia.
The area Member of Parliament and security teams, together with officers from the Kenya Red Cross Society, immediately launched a search and rescue mission. By the time of going to press, the man’s motorbike had already been recovered, but his body was still missing.
Kitui Senator Enoch Wambua visited the river banks on Saturday and expressed concern over the increasing number of similar incidents in the area.
The senator revealed that at least two similar accidents were reported at the same river last year and promised to work with both the national and county governments to improve safety at the crossing point.
He also urged residents to avoid risking their lives during heavy rains.
“If you find the river flooded, do not attempt to cross even if you know how to swim. Floodwaters carry heavy objects like logs which can easily knock someone down. It is better to go home and explain why you were late than for us to start searching for your body,” said the senator.
Senior Chief Thomas Munyao also warned residents to avoid crossing flooded rivers during the rainy season, advising those travelling at night to seek shelter instead of risking their lives.
The incident has once again raised concern among residents of Kitui West Constituency, who are now calling for urgent safety measures at the Ithekethe River crossing point.
