Police targeted traffic violations along the Mombasa-Nairobi Highway.
Police targeted drink-driving, defective vehicles and invalid documents on the Mombasa-Nairobi Highway following fatal crashes.
Police arrested at least 20 motorists and motorcycle riders during a highway traffic crackdown on November 10. The multi-agency operation took place along the Mombasa-Nairobi Highway.
The National Police Service (NPS) said officers targeted drink-driving, defective vehicles and motorists without valid insurance or licences. The enforcement comes amid rising road crashes on the busy route.
At least 45 people have reportedly died along the highway over the past month. Recent incidents include two head-on collisions involving trucks and a passenger bus.
Highway traffic crackdown follows fatal collisions
Four days before the operation, two trucks travelling in opposite directions collided at Kiunduani in Makindu. Both vehicles caught fire, and four people died at the scene.
Earlier, on October 25, a bus and a lorry collided head-on in the Kanga area, past Mtito Andei. That crash killed at least 22 people and injured several others.
Meanwhile, Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja has directed officers to strengthen enforcement before the festive season. He also instructed them to impound vehicles that are not roadworthy.
Kanja issued the directive on November 7, citing the expected increase in traffic and commercial activity towards year-end. He warned that these conditions could heighten safety risks for motorists and other road users.
Police expand enforcement and safety awareness
The police chief called for action against drink-driving, dangerous driving, speeding and unsafe vehicles, including motorcycles. He also urged motorists, pedestrians and other road users to take care on the roads.
In addition, Kanja instructed officers to stay alert, maintain readiness and respond to emerging security concerns. Following his directive, officers stepped up road safety awareness and enforcement in Kitui, Makueni and Mombasa counties.
Police worked with other road safety stakeholders during those activities. The NPS also urged drivers and riders to check their vehicles’ condition before travelling on public roads.
Motorists should ensure they have valid insurance and the required licences, the service said. It further appealed to all road users to follow traffic rules, exercise caution and put safety first.
Members of the public can report traffic offences or road safety concerns at the nearest police post or station. Alternatively, they can contact police through the toll-free emergency numbers 999 or 911.
