NTSA revokes NICCO Movers’ licence after KMTC student’s death
By Katemarthason Okudo, June 12, 2026The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has revoked the operating licence of NICCO Movers Sacco, following findings from an investigation into a recent road incident that raised concerns over passenger safety and operational management.
In a public notice issued on Friday, June 12, the authority said the decision was reached after a thorough assessment of the operator’s safety practices and compliance status. According to NTSA, the review uncovered several shortcomings that it believes put road users at risk.
“The Sacco’s officials and management have lost control of the operation of their fleet, lack adequate safety protocols, and have not demonstrated any efforts to address major safety concerns,” the notice stated.
Safety concerns raised
The authority said its investigation found that the operator had failed to maintain the standards expected of licensed public transport providers. NTSA noted that vehicles linked to the Sacco were operating under conditions considered unsafe and could pose a danger to passengers, pedestrians, and other motorists.
The findings prompted the authority to take enforcement action aimed at safeguarding road users and restoring confidence in public transport safety. “Vehicles operating under the Sacco are unsafe and pose a danger to road users,” NTSA said.
Incident details and institutional response
Family accounts indicate that Mutuku had paid his fare but was waiting for change when a confrontation occurred with a conductor. He was allegedly pushed from a moving matatu registered KDV 713J. The vehicle reportedly did not stop and was later found abandoned in Kariokor, Nairobi.
Mutuku was rushed to hospital but died at Kenyatta National Hospital due to severe injuries. A postmortem conducted on June 8 confirmed death from severe multiple body injuries and internal bleeding caused by blunt force trauma.
Immediate enforcement measures
Following the revocation, the Sacco has been directed to cease all operations with immediate effect. NTSA also instructed law enforcement officers to impound any vehicles found operating under the revoked licence.
The move signals a firm stance by the authority on compliance and accountability within the public transport sector, particularly on matters relating to passenger welfare and road safety.
Renewed focus on passenger safety
The latest action comes as transport regulators continue to emphasise the importance of strict adherence to safety requirements by public service vehicle operators. NTSA has repeatedly maintained that operators must ensure proper management of their fleets, implement effective safety measures, and comply with regulations designed to protect the public.
The authority said the revocation was necessary to prevent further risks and ensure that only operators meeting the required standards are allowed to remain on the roads. “For these reasons, the Authority has resolved to revoke the operator licence and order the cessation of operations with immediate effect,” the notice added.
The directive takes effect immediately, with enforcement agencies expected to oversee compliance across affected routes. KMTC expressed sorrow over the incident on June 10, stating it would cooperate fully with authorities. The institution said Mutuku had been on clinical attachment at the time of the incident.
The family has called for justice, with the mother stating, “I have forgiven who did that to my son… But I’m praying that justice will be served.” Police investigations into the driver and conductor are ongoing.