Inspector General of Police Joseph Boinnet has revealed that close to 2,000 people have so far been arrested for contravening the newly reinstated Michuki rules.
This comes on the backdrop of a standoff between the police and majority of matatu operators who have vowed to stay off the roads in protest of the crackdown on traffic violation.
Addressing the press on Monday in Nairobi, the IG said the arrested individuals consist of both matatu operators and their passengers as well as private vehicle users.
“The figures that I’m receiving now is that close to 2,000 offenders have been arrested… these include matatu operators, operators of private vehicles and even users of PSVs (Public Service Vehicles),” said IG Boinnet.
The police boss further urged commuters to only board vehicles that comply with the traffic regulations such as availability of safety belts and uniformed staff failure to which, they will be slapped with fines.
Boinnet also asked PSV drivers and motorcycle riders to comply with the regulations insisting no cars will be allowed back on the roads if they have not complied with the rules.
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“Those who want to tempt us by bringing to the highways vehicles that have not been tested and have no authority to come to the road… it will be very difficult for them,” says IG.
“Do not bring your vehicle to the road if it has not complied with the set rules and regulations… if you do, do not say you were not warned. Just try us.”
Boinnet maintained that the crackdown on rogue matatus would continue, stating that, “We must go back to order and not the kind of disorder we have been witnessing on our highways. That will stop!”