In a bid to enforce road safety standards, authorities have impounded several non-compliant Public Service Vehicles (PSVs) in an ongoing crackdown carried out by the police and the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA). The operation, which took place between Friday and Saturday, targeted vehicles commonly referred to as “Nganyas,” notorious for their flashy modifications and safety violations.
According to sources within the police, the crackdown mainly focused on vehicles that have been excessively modified, with some adorned with decorative drawings and illegal tints, including those covering the driver’s windows. Such alterations not only violate traffic regulations but also pose significant safety risks, obstructing visibility and potentially endangering passengers and other road users.
The operation, which covered parts of Nairobi and Kiambu, saw several PSVs detained. The owners and operators of these vehicles were arrested and taken in for questioning, with some being released on cash bail. A senior police officer revealed that the operators would face court charges on Monday, while their vehicles remain at the Kiambu Police Station, awaiting further inspection.
The vehicles are set to undergo a thorough inspection by NTSA officials to ensure that they meet the legal standards for operation. This will include checking for roadworthiness, safety features, and compliance with regulations regarding vehicle modifications. The NTSA has consistently warned against such modifications, emphasizing the importance of adhering to safety rules to prevent accidents, particularly those involving the vulnerable PSV sector.
The authorities have stressed the need for all PSV operators to abide by the law and ensure their vehicles meet the required safety standards. This crackdown is part of a broader initiative to reduce road accidents and promote safer travel conditions for both commuters and other road users.
With the ongoing rise in road accidents in the country, especially involving PSVs, this operation sends a strong message to rogue operators who disregard safety regulations. The authorities have also called on the public to report any vehicles they suspect to be operating outside the law, urging collective responsibility in ensuring safer roads.
As the crackdown continues, more vehicles are expected to be inspected, with a focus on ensuring that the PSV industry operates within the confines of the law, promoting the safety and well-being of all citizens.
