IG Koome's Traffic Advisory After 16 People Die In Road Crashes

The Inspector General of Police Japhet Koome has cautioned Motorists against flaunting traffic rules during the festive season.

In a statement on Wednesday, December 16, IG Koome noted that 16 people have lost their lives from two accidents in the past week.

“From our data, road traffic accidents are a leading cause of injuries and fatalities, with negative financial and health implications of accidents on victims and caregivers.

“Already we have had two major fatal road traffic accidents in which we have lost a total of 16 people in Machakos and Nakuru since last week,” read the statement in part.

The Police IG observed that most of road traffic accidents and crashes in the Country, are due to preventable human factors such as operating defective vehicles, failure to use safety belts by commuters, speeding, driver fatigue, driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs, and dangerous overtaking.

Koome called on pedestrians and motorists to change their behavior on the roads and observe traffic rules.

“I wish to emphasize that road safety is our collective responsibility as Kenyans. We must change our behaviour on the roads. Therefore, I am appealing to pedestrians, cyclists, boda boda riders, passengers, and drivers to adhere to traffic rules so that we make this festive season safe for all of us,” Koome stated.

The IG further also said the National Police Service will support the ongoing joint efforts by the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) and the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) to ensure that safety and sanity prevail on the roads.

Koome also directed all police officers who are currently on Leave to resume duty with immediate effect to enhance security in the country.

“In this regard, I wish to reiterate my past sentiments, that the National Police Service has no room for corrupt officers. My office remains open to the Director EACC for collaboration in the fight against corruption,” he added.