The Directorate of Traffic and Road Safety has issued a stern warning to drivers and passengers over the dangerous practice of carrying excess passengers, particularly in ways that interfere with the driver’s control.
According to SP Kananura, a public relations officer at the directorate, this violation significantly compromises road safety and increases the likelihood of serious accidents.
“Carrying passengers in a manner that obstructs safe driving is a serious traffic violation. It endangers both the driver and passengers and greatly raises the risk of crashes that can result in loss of life,” SP Kananura said.
Several drivers engaging in this practice have already been apprehended and are currently in police custody awaiting court proceedings.
The PR officer emphasized that while enforcement is ongoing, it alone is insufficient to curb the problem.
Some drivers deliberately evade checkpoints by using alternative routes, while some passengers knowingly cooperate by disembarking before reaching enforcement points, only to rejoin the vehicle afterward.
To address these issues, authorities have outlined clear directives for drivers and passengers.
Drivers are instructed to immediately cease carrying passengers in ways that interfere with safe driving.
Passengers, in turn, are urged to act responsibly by avoiding boarding overloaded vehicles or those operating in violation of safety regulations, even if it appears to save time or money.
The police have confirmed that there will be no on-the-spot fines for these violations. Offenders will face arrest, detention, and prosecution in court.
SP Kananura stressed that these measures are part of a broader commitment by the Directorate of Traffic and Road Safety to protect lives on the road.
“Road safety is everyone’s responsibility,” he said, noting that continuous and routine enforcement is critical to eliminating practices that put road users at risk.
Authorities hope that public cooperation, coupled with strict enforcement, will significantly reduce incidents caused by unsafe vehicle operations.
The warning serves as a reminder that ensuring safety on Kenyan roads requires vigilance from both drivers and passengers.
The police have pledged sustained efforts to protect lives and prevent avoidable tragedies caused by overcrowding and unsafe driving practices.