The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has detained 13 vehicles along Nairobi’s Southern Bypass after a nighttime road safety operation uncovered multiple violations, including suspected drunk driving and operating vehicles without valid insurance.
The operation, conducted by an inter-agency team, also exposed motorists driving with expired licences and vehicles that had failed to meet basic roadworthiness requirements.
In an update, NTSA said the enforcement exercise was part of efforts to improve road safety during the current seasonal campaign.
“Last night, the inter-agency team conducted a safety compliance check along the Southern Bypass, during which thirteen (13) motor vehicles were detained,” the authority said.
The crackdown targeted both driver-related offences and mechanical or documentation failures that could expose motorists and other road users to danger.
Drunk Driving, Expired Licences Among Violations
NTSA listed driving under the influence of alcohol and operating with expired driving licences among the major concerns identified during the operation.
Driving after consuming alcohol can impair judgement, coordination and reaction time, increasing the risk of crashes, particularly on busy roads where motorists travel at high speeds.
The authority also identified vehicles operating with expired inspection stickers, without insurance or in violation of their insurance terms.
“Operating without insurance” was among the violations highlighted by NTSA, alongside vehicles whose insurance arrangements did not comply with the applicable terms.
The authority did not specify how many of the 13 vehicles were linked to each offence or disclose whether the drivers were arrested, charged or released after the checks.
Broken Headlights, Cracked Windscreens Raise Safety Concerns
The operation also uncovered vehicles with broken headlights and cracked windscreens, defects that can compromise visibility and safe driving.
Faulty headlights can make it difficult for drivers to see clearly at night and for other motorists to notice approaching vehicles.
Cracked windscreens may also obstruct a driver’s view, depending on the location and extent of the damage.
The findings highlight the importance of regular vehicle inspections and maintenance, particularly for motorists using major highways and bypasses.
Vehicles operating on public roads are expected to meet applicable safety requirements, while drivers must ensure that their licences and other required documents remain valid.
NTSA Intensifies Seasonal Road Safety Campaign
The Southern Bypass operation comes as NTSA promotes its seasonal road safety campaign under the slogan Fika Salama, urging motorists to take precautions and comply with traffic regulations.
The authority directed members of the public seeking more information about the campaign to visit its official website.
“Kwa maelezo zaidi kuhusu kampeni yetu ya usalama barabarani katika msimu huu, fikia tovuti yetu ntsa.go.ke,” NTSA said.
The crackdown serves as a reminder to motorists to avoid driving under the influence of alcohol, renew expired licences, maintain valid insurance and ensure their vehicles are roadworthy before setting off.
Motorists can access road safety information and updates through the authority’s official website at ntsa.go.ke.
