Inspector General of Police Japhet Koome has issued a travel advisory to Kenyans during the festive season, cautioning motorists against flaunting traffic rules.
In a statement dated Wednesday, Koome noted that 16 people had already lost their lives in the past week.
He reiterated that traffic police officers, working in conjunction with their colleagues from the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) and the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) to guarantee safety on roads and also curb corruption.
"The National Police Service has the mandate to enforce traffic laws. However, I wish to emphasise that road safety is our collective responsibility as Kenyans. We must change our behaviour on the roads.
"Therefore, I am appealing to pedestrians, cyclists, boda boda riders, passengers, and drivers to adhere to traffic rules so that we make this festive season safe for all of us." read the statement in part.
Koome also warned that the El Nino rains had impaired visibility on the roads and urged motorists to observe speed limits.
He also recalled all officers on leave to resume duty immediately in a bid to enhance police visibility as per a directive issued by Interior CS Kithure Kindiki.
The IG's travel advisory comes after 16 people passed away in two separate accidents, one in Nakuru and another in Machakos.
On Monday, 4 people died after a 60-seater bus collided with a matatu along the Nakuru-Eldoret Highway.
12 others passed away in Machakos after the breaks of the matatu they were travelling in malfunctioned.
Earlier, Second Lady Pastor Dorcas Gachagua urged motorists to refrain from drunk driving, which she claimed was the major cause of road accidents.
Gachagua also encouraged revellers against overindulging during the festivities.
"I thank God for you because I know you are remaining sober this Christmas. Most of the accidents that have been happening are caused by drunk drivers. I want you to celebrate the way you should. Alive and sober," Pastor Dorcas stated in her Christmas message.
