There was panic at the Likoni channel on Monday afternoon after a ferry loaded with vehicles and passengers developed a technical hitch in the middle of the ocean.
According to a statement from the Kenya Ferry Services (KFS) that was shared on Facebook, the MV Jambo had just left the mainland for the island when the incident occurred.
"At around 2:30 pm, MV Jambo developed a steering hitch while loaded with vehicles and passengers just as she left mainland towards the island side, MV. Kwale came into her rescue and towed her to the island ramp where the motorists and passengers disembarked and later to the Mbaraki wharf for repairs. Passengers onboard MV.kwale were later discharged on the island ramp. We apologize for the inconveniences caused," KFS said in a statement.
Later on in the evening, KFS confirmed that MV Jambo had been withdrawn from service resulting in heavy traffic at the channel.
"MV. Jambo which had resumed operations has been unable to do so, MV Kwale has towed her to the wharf. Mv.Nyayo, Harambee Likoni and Kwale will be serving you. There is heavy traffic build up due to this delay. Kindly be patient as we serve you. We apologize for the inconveniences caused," KFS added..
The incident comes shortly after a Kenyatta University bus almost reversed into the ocean at the channel last week.