Mobile court nets over 100 vehicles

By PETERSON GITHAIGA

Transport along the Nairobi-Namanga road was paralysed for the better part of yesterday, after a roadside mobile court pitched tent in Kitengela town.

Rogue drivers and conductors were judged instantly in the operation that netted more than 100 vehicles.

The operation led by Nairobi Senior Superintendent Ayub Gitonga, caught Namanga road users off guard.

“This is a Government initiative and we will ensure we arrest all those who violate traffic rules,’’ said Mr Gitonga.

Mr Gitonga further said that the exercise will be extended to passengers who fail to use safety belts.

He further added that the operation was initiated following increased road accidents and that the Ministry of Transport is committed to ensure all unroadworthy vehicles are phased out.

“We will also ensure that all drivers comply with traffic rules and regulations,” said Gitonga.

Drivers with speeding vehicles, those without licences and boda boda operators without reflectors and helmets were all arrested and charged a fine ranging from Sh10,000 to Sh50,000. Gitonga noted that  traffic police officers would continue keeping a watchful eye on the roads to restore sanity.

Hundreds  of passengers travelling to Kajiado, Isinya and Ilbisel were stranded for hours as they looked for alternative means to reach their destinations.

Passengers heading to Nairobi from Kitengela town were also stranded as the number of public service vehicles reduced leading to a fare hike from the normal Sh100 to 200.

Most passengers were, however, positive and delighted about the crackdown,  saying it would help reduce the number of accidents on the roads.