The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has traced a white Toyota Probox that was captured on CCTV near the scene of the fatal road crash that claimed the life of former Lugari MP and businessman Cyrus Jirongo, as investigations into the incident continue.
In a progress report issued on Thursday, the DCI said a team of detectives travelled to Keringet in Kuresoi South, Nakuru County, to trace and interview individuals linked to the registration of the vehicle.
The vehicle was captured on CCTV footage at Eagol Petrol Station in Karai shortly after Jirongo drove into the station and exited moments before the fatal crash occurred.
According to the investigators, statements recorded during the exercise indicated that the Probox is registered to a Member of County Assembly (MCA).
“Statements were recorded from the individuals concerned, confirming that the said vehicle is registered to the MCA and that it is managed by his wife,” the DCI said.
The agency further stated that the vehicle had been hired out at the time of the incident and was being used for a family trip to Nairobi.
According to accounts recorded by investigators, the occupants said they had travelled from Nakuru County to Nairobi on the day in question to receive a relative arriving from abroad and later began their return journey shortly after midnight.
While on their way back, they told detectives that they stopped at Eagol Petrol Station in Karai due to poor visibility caused by adverse weather conditions.
They said the stop was brief and intended to allow them to refill the vehicle’s wiper fluid.
During this time, they reported seeing Jirongo exit the petrol station and drive off in the direction of Nairobi.
They further stated that after looking towards the road, they observed a bus dragging Jirongo’s vehicle following the collision.
“Moments later, as they refilled the fluid, they heard a loud bang and saw a bus dragging the deceased’s vehicle,” the statement said.
After completing the refill, they exited the petrol station and briefly stopped near the scene at the request of a security guard, who sought assistance in responding to the accident.
The individuals told investigators that they did not alight from their vehicle but instead used their headlights to illuminate the wreckage, noting that it was dark and that no other motorists had arrived at the scene at that point.
They said they left shortly thereafter when additional vehicles began to arrive and traffic began to build up, before proceeding with their journey home.
According to the statement, the occupants arrived at their destination at around 6.00am and later learned that the victim of the crash was Jirongo.
The DCI said it is interrogating the accounts provided as part of efforts to establish the full sequence of events leading to the fatal accident.
The agency reassured Jirongo’s family, friends and the public that investigations into the circumstances surrounding his death are ongoing and will be conducted thoroughly and impartially.
The DCI added that all relevant leads are being pursued, including the analysis of CCTV footage, witness statements and other forensic evidence, to determine responsibility for the crash.
by JAMES GICHIGI
