The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA), working with a multi-agency team, conducted a night crackdown on Friday along the Kisii–Narok Road as part of road safety enforcement during the festive season.
The operation, led by NTSA South Nyanza Regional Manager Adan Addow, targeted motorists flouting traffic laws, with officers setting up a major checkpoint at Kegati Bridge along the Kisii–Keroka Road.
At least 15 motorists were apprehended during the operation for various offences, including driving under the influence and operating vehicles in violation of NTSA regulations.
Authorities said those found culpable were issued instant fines, while other offenders faced further action depending on the nature of the violations.
During the crackdown, several passengers whose journeys were interrupted expressed frustration, blaming bus and matatu operators for failing to comply with the law and exposing travellers to delays.
One traveller, Isaac Bisiria, said he was headed to Nairobi for work when his vehicle was stopped at the NTSA checkpoint, leaving passengers stranded for more than an hour.
“I am not sure if it is us, the passengers, or the driver who is in trouble, but I am supposed to be in Nairobi by morning,” Bisiria said, noting that impounded vehicles left commuters inconvenienced.
Responding to the concerns, Addow defended the operation, saying the authority was enforcing provisions of both the Traffic Act and the NTSA Act to safeguard lives.
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“This is the Christmas season when people travel to visit loved ones, and we are here to ensure safety according to the law,” Addow said.
The Regional manager continued to urge drivers and passengers to remain cautious.
The Kisii operation came as similar enforcement exercises were carried out in other regions, including Embu County.
In Embu, several drivers under the influence were apprehended, and boda boda riders were detained for riding without licences and insurance, while others were cited for blaring lights and modified exhaust systems.
