Over 20 drunk drivers were on Saturday night arrested along Kiambu Road even as the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) intensified its crackdown on traffic offenders.
Most drivers were caught unawares after the NTSA and the police laid an ambush along the busy road in an operation aimed at reducing road carnage during the Easter holiday.
Those arrested will be arraigned on Tuesday, April 2, 2024.
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"We have nabbed a number of people who have been found to be drunk or rather have alcohol beyond the legal limit as drivers. Drinking does affect how you operate your vehicle on a number of issues. That's why we are asking Kenyans to ensure that they are lawful. We are doing this operation with the National Police Service to ensure Kenyans are safe all the time," said NTSA during the operation.
The transport authority and the police have recently intensified a crackdown against traffic offenders, following an increased number of road accidents across the country.
NTSA statistics
Statistics released by NTSA this month showed that the number of road accidents in the country between January 1, 2024, to March 20, 2024, had risen by 7 per cent compared to a similar period last year.
According to data from the authority, 1,026 people were killed in road accidents across the country from January to March 20, 2024.
The authority said 384 pedestrians,77 drivers, 225 passengers, 16 pedal cyclists, 242 motorcyclists, and 82 pillion passengers lost their lives in road accidents between January 1 and March 20, 2023.
NTSA attributes the deaths to a breach of road safety regulations.
14-seater with 31 passengers
A 14-seater matatu ferrying 31 students on Saturday was impounded by officers from the authority.
Confirming the incident, NTSA said the matatu impounded in Meru was coming from Tharaka Nithi.
The driver of the vehicle managed to escape after the officers approached the vehicle, efforts to arrest him are currently underway.
The students were offered alternative transport arrangements by the NTSA officials.
NTSA said the vehicle was towed to the police station pending further action.
"A 14 seater PSV was found carrying 31 students from Tharaka Nithi County. The driver managed to escape and efforts are underway to apprehend him. Alternative transport arrangements were made for the learners. Drivers and school management entrusted with the safety of our children must understand their responsibility," NTSA said.
Several pedestrians were arrested last week for failing to use designated crossing points.
