A Nakuru Chief Magistrate has fined two men Ksh1 million each, in default of which they will serve one and a half years in prison, for unlawfully removing a road bump sign along the Nakuru–Kabarak Road.
The signage, located near Kabarak University in Rongai Sub-County, Nakuru County, was classified as essential road infrastructure.
The two men pleaded guilty to the offence of Destruction of Infrastructure, contrary to Section 24(1) as read with Section 24(2) of the Scrap Metal Act No. 1 of 2015.
Their actions, the court ruled, posed a grave danger to motorists and other road users who rely on such signage for safe navigation.
Reacting to the court order, the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) hailed the ruling, saying it was necessary to punish individuals who vandalise road infrastructure.
"The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) stands with the court verdict and strongly condemns vandalism of road infrastructure, as it endangers the safety of road users," KeNHA said.
"As an Authority, we urge all Kenyans to protect road furniture and report any acts of vandalism to any KeNHA office or the nearest police station," the Authority continued.
KeNHA has requested Kenyans to be vigilant and protect all road infrastructure, urging them to report any form of vandalism on the highways through its toll-free line.
The court's decision marks one of the most stringent penalties issued under the Scrap Metal Act since its enactment in 2015.
The Act was designed to discourage the rampant theft and destruction of public infrastructure, which has cost the government billions in repairs and replacements.
Such road signages, including speed bumps, warning signs, and directional markers, play a critical role in maintaining road safety.
Their removal can lead to road carnage, especially in high-traffic areas like university zones, where students and pedestrians are frequently on the move.
