A driver captured on video performing dangerous driving maneuvers on a busy highway has been fined Sh120,000 and had his driving license suspended for one year. The incident, which occurred on Sunday, December 24, along the Makuyu-Sagana Road at Kambiti area, sparked widespread outrage after footage of the reckless driving went viral on social media.
The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) confirmed that the driver was arrested and arraigned at the Kenol Law Courts on Friday. In addition to the hefty fine, the driver was charged with three offenses: operating an unroadworthy vehicle, careless driving, and driving without a PSV badge. For each charge, he faced individual fines: Sh60,000 for the unroadworthy vehicle, Sh50,000 for careless driving, and Sh10,000 for driving without the necessary PSV badge.
The owner of the Toyota Hiace involved in the incident was also fined Sh20,000 for permitting the unroadworthy vehicle on the road, while the conductor was ordered to pay a Sh12,000 fine. The conductor faced two charges: operating without a PSV badge and riding in a dangerous position, for which he was fined Sh10,000 and Sh2,000 respectively.
The incident involved two vehicles swerving recklessly side by side, weaving through traffic at high speeds while passengers were seen peeping through the windows, creating a hazardous situation for other road users. The footage was captured by a motorist trailing the vehicles, and it quickly spread across social media, raising concerns about road safety, particularly during the festive season when traffic is often heavier.
The driver of the other vehicle involved in the incident is still at large, with authorities continuing their search for him. Police spokesperson Resila Anyango confirmed that the vehicle owners and the drivers of the Nissan vehicles involved have been identified and summoned for questioning by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI).
This incident has reignited public debate about road safety and the need for stricter enforcement of traffic regulations. Many social media users have called for more severe penalties for reckless driving to deter such dangerous behavior.
The arrest comes at a time when the National Police Service (NPS) and NTSA are increasing efforts to enforce road safety regulations nationwide. With the festive season in full swing, police have rolled out a series of crackdowns and road safety checks across major highways to prevent accidents caused by reckless driving and other violations. Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja emphasized the importance of ensuring the safety of all road users during this busy period.