More than 70 crew held in crackdown

By Stella Mwangi

More than 70 matatu operators were arrested in an early morning crackdown in Nakuru.

Rift Valley Provincial Inspector of Traffic Vitalis Otieno said the early morning crackdown was intended to apprehend drivers and conductors breaking the law.

"Very many drivers and conductors have decided to break the rules, which are put to ensure passengers’ safety," he said.

Addressing the press yesterday, Mr Otieno said more than 30 matatus, 32 drivers and 40 conductors had been arrested in the ongoing crackdown.

"Majority were not in uniform, had no licenses or were not displaying their photos as required by the law," he said. He added some were over speeding while others were operating vehicles whose speed governors were tampered with.

"We are also checking if the vehicles are fitted with seat-belts which are in good condition," he said.

Former Transport John Michuki introduced the rules in 2005. He is now Environment minister.

Speed gadgets

All public service vehicles are expected to be fitted with speed governors and seat belts.

Drivers and conductors are to wear uniforms and not to carry excess passengers. Otieno warned passengers that they would also be arrested if they failed to comply with the rules.

"Any excess passengers will be arrested as well as those who will not fasten seat belts," he said.

The crackdown left many passengers stranded at the Nakuru Bus Station as there were no matatus.

Many were forced to walk to their places of work.

Those arrested during the crackdown were arraigned in court.