Night travel ban has reduced road carnage, says Kimaiyo

By Francis Ngige

Road carnage has reduced significantly since a night ban on buses and trucks was imposed, Inspector General of Police David Kimaiyo has said.

Mr Kimaiyo said the ban would remain in force until sanity on the roads is restored to curb further loss of lives. “Having seen the positive results after imposing the ban on buses that travel at night, the next move is now to ensure the alcoblow kits are supplied in all parts of the country,” he said.

The IG, who was on a tour of the crime hit Kirinyaga County, said police officers will be required to operate at the grassroots level from next year as a measure to detect and prevent crime at an early stage.

He said the move is meant to bring services close to wananchi, unlike before when those seeking the services had to travel long distances.

Kimaiyo said police officers will also be well empowered. “We are doing this in an elaborate effort to reform the dented image of the police service. I want us to move from the number one corruption index and leave it to others wishing to carry on with the vice,” he vowed.

The IG said he is optimistic the police service will shed off the corruption tag, saying he has asked Parliament to recommend better remuneration for the officers.

Criminal Investigations Director Ndegwa Muhoro, who accompanied Kimaiyo, said remnants of the outlawed Mungiki sect who are regrouping in some parts of Mwea should be flushed out.