VDJ Jones has reflected on a warning he issued days before the fatal Komarock matatu accident, saying he feared the growing culture of dangerous nganya stunts could eventually end in tragedy.
In a Facebook post shared on Sunday, June 7, 2026, Jones recalled cautioning matatu operators against engaging in risky driving styles commonly referred to as “Manyoka,” urging them to put safety ahead of entertainment and hype.
According to Jones, he had commented on a viral video showing a matatu performing dangerous manoeuvres on the road and warned that such behaviour was likely to have devastating consequences.
“I made this comment some days earlier… two days later, disaster happened. I saw this coming,” VDJ Jones wrote.
His earlier message had been posted under a video of a red matatu carrying passengers who were seen hanging from doors and windows while the vehicle performed risky stunts.
“The hype is good, but this will turn fatal very soon. Please love your families, you all,” he had warned at the time.
Following the deadly crash, Jones said he was deeply saddened that the concerns he had raised had become a reality.
He used the opportunity to call on matatu operators and crews to embrace responsible road behaviour, arguing that while nganya culture remains one of the most admired aspects of urban transport, it should not come at the expense of human lives.
“Say no to reckless driving and enjoy responsibly… too many tears for the families of victims,” he wrote.
Jones noted that the matatu industry has earned widespread admiration for its creativity, branding, music, lighting systems and overall entertainment value. However, he warned that reckless stunts threaten to undermine the progress and reputation the industry has built over the years.
“Hakuna industry kubwa most loved kama ya nganya, but we have to do it responsibly,” he added.
Crash Sparks Renewed Safety Concerns
Jones’ comments come after the tragic accident involving the popular customised matatu Detat, which overturned along Enterprise Road near the Dar es Salaam Roundabout in Nairobi’s Industrial Area on Wednesday evening.
The 33-seater matatu, which operates on the CBD–Komarock Route 19C under Risen Sacco, was involved in the crash at around 8:00 pm.
Authorities have confirmed that at least five people lost their lives, while more than a dozen others sustained injuries and were taken to various hospitals for treatment.
Among those who died were passengers and members of the transport crew, including a Huduma Centre employee who was reportedly travelling home from work when the accident occurred.
The incident drew widespread public attention after videos recorded shortly before the crash surfaced online.
The footage showed a festive atmosphere inside the vehicle, with passengers cheering, waving and enjoying the ride as conductors hung from the doorway while the matatu was in motion.
