Kenyan Truck Driver Killed in DRC After Breakdown Leaves Him Stranded in Insecure Region

Bunia, Democratic Republic of Congo — A Kenyan long-distance truck driver has been killed in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) after his vehicle reportedly broke down in a volatile region, leaving him stranded during a cross-border delivery from Mombasa.

The driver, identified as Edwin Njuguna Ngugi, was transporting cargo along the busy Mombasa–Central Africa trade route when his truck developed mechanical problems near the Bunia area in eastern DRC.

Stranded in a high-risk zone

Reports indicate that Ngugi became stranded in an area known for insecurity and armed group activity. During the breakdown, he was reportedly placed under temporary protection by local military officers while awaiting mechanical assistance.

However, according to accounts from the scene, the officers later withdrew, leaving him exposed in a dangerous environment.

Distress calls before tragedy

Before his death, Ngugi is said to have contacted a relative, sending distress messages describing the deteriorating situation. He reportedly raised concerns about insecurity in the area and expressed fear for his safety as he remained stranded with his truck.

Shortly after, he was attacked by unknown armed assailants and killed. His body was later recovered in a bush, with reports indicating he suffered fatal injuries.

Family seeks repatriation

The incident has left his family devastated as they now seek assistance to bring his body back to Kenya for burial. The tragedy adds to growing concerns about the safety of transporters operating along routes that pass through conflict-prone regions in eastern DRC.

Rising concern over regional transport safety

The killing has renewed debate over the risks faced by East African truck drivers who operate long-haul routes through insecure corridors. Stakeholders in the transport sector have previously raised concerns about inadequate protection for stranded drivers, especially in areas affected by armed conflict.

Authorities in both Kenya and the DRC are yet to issue a detailed statement on the circumstances surrounding the attack.