Highway patrols increased as traffic personnel removed from roads

The police have enhanced traffic patrols on major highways to address fears following withdrawal of traffic checkpoints and roadblocks.

Deputy Inspector General of Administration Police Noor Gabow (pictured) told a meeting of police officers in Kisumu that Inspector General of Police Hilary Mutyambai had scrapped roadblocks on major highways as part of efforts to address cases of corruption.

“There will be no roadblock from Busia to Nairobi. There will be a check only in Busia and from there it will be free flow with increased patrols,” he said.

He added that most traffic personnel who have been manning roadblocks will now be redeployed for general duties.

He said those who will remain will be responsible for responding to traffic scenes and manning urban areas.

“Some base commanders will be redeployed as ward commanders and administrators at various levels,” he said.

He said roadblocks will be only erected with with a specific purpose on instructions from regional police commanders.

He added according to new rules, not more than 10 officers will be deployed on traffic duties.

Mutyambai had ordered removal of traffic checkpoints and roadblocks on major highways in the country.

While issuing the directive, Mutyambai said county commanders shall be held accountable for any misconduct by traffic officers under their commands.

The police boss said public safety on roads remains one of his top objective.

Already some commanders have ordered that the roadblocks be removed.

“For those within township, ensure free flow of vehicles but for those not within town, keep off the road and only wait to attend to accident occurrences which should be investigated immediately as we await for further directions from the high authority,” read an order from one of the commanders.