Uasin Gishu firefighters warn public against siphoning fuel from overturned tankers

Firefighters in Uasin Gishu County have urged the public to stay away from accident scenes involving petroleum tankers and other flammable materials to prevent future fatalities.

This warning comes after an incident yesterday at Maili Nne estate along the Eldoret–Webuye road, where a petroleum tanker transporting fuel from the Eldoret Pipeline Company depot to Kampala overturned, temporarily halting traffic on the busy highway.

It was reported that several residents, mostly traders, noticed the excessive overflow of fuel from the tanker and began siphoning it, unaware of the dangers.

Some individuals are alleged to have taken home more than 20 liters.

According to Uasin Gishu County Fire Superintendent Hassan Wangwero, such scenes pose significant risks, including toxic vapors from  spilled fuel and the potential for fire or explosions.

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He emphasised the need for the public to maintain a safe distance during emergencies involving flammable substances, including fires in buildings.

During the incident, firefighters faced the challenge of dispersing the crowd that had gathered to siphon the leaking fuel from the overturned tanker.

They had to call for additional support from police and county officials.

“The fuel spillage began flowing toward nearby residential areas and downstream water sources connecting Maili Nne and Roadblock, yet instead of assisting the driver, the residents viewed the situation as an opportunity,” Wangwero stated.

He explained that with the help of police officers, the emergency team secured the area and used foam to neutralise the fuel to prevent environmental contamination, especially in nearby rivers.

Area Assistant Chief Ezekiel Bwambok revealed that the tanker, carrying approximately 39,000 liters of petrol, veered off the road into a ditch as the driver attempted to park.

The tanker later overturned when efforts by another truck driver to tow it back onto the road failed, prompting local residents to take advantage of the situation.

Area Police Commander Benjamin Mwanthi cautioned residents against approaching or tampering with fuel tankers involved in accidents.

He noted that the country has lost innocent lives in such incidents and warned that siphoning fuel or oil in this manner poses significant dangers and legal consequences.

“We have seen people lose their lives trying to become rich from nothing. Let us be smart if we want to live a better life,” Mwanthi advised.