From tinted windows to graffiti: NTSA targets rogue PSVs in crackdown
This comes after Kenyans online raised concerns about PSVs featured in videos circulating on social media, showing several of them violating traffic rules, including dangerous overtaking.
Several non-compliant matatus were impounded and their operators arrested in an ongoing crackdown by the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) and police officers in Nairobi and Kiambu counties.
The operation, which took place on Friday and Saturday, targeted PSVs, commonly known as Nganyas, notorious for violating road safety regulations.
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In a bid to restore order on Nairobi’s roads, NTSA said the operation focused on PSVs with excessive graffiti, bright fog lights, and dangerously tinted windows, particularly those on the driver's side.
This comes after Kenyans online raised concerns about PSVs featured in videos circulating on social media, showing several of them violating traffic rules, including dangerous overtaking.
During the operation, several matatus were detained, and their operators, who had committed a range of violations, were arrested.
The suspects were however released on cash bail and are expected to appear in court on Monday, January 27.
NTSA has identified specific routes with the highest number of violators, including those serving Ngong, Rongai, Eastlands (Umoja, Buruburu, Kayole), and Kitengela. The routes have been linked to an increase in safety infractions.
Images and videos shared online depict the dangers posed by these rogue matatus, including one where a concerned user posted an image of a heavily tinted windscreen obscured with graffiti, leaving only a small gap for the driver’s view.
The crackdown comes after the NTSA was compelled to act following the viral circulation of a video on January 7, where two matatus branded 'Moneyfest' were filmed flouting traffic regulations. In the footage, passengers were seen sitting on top of the vehicles, heightening safety concerns.
As the authority continues to address these violations, it also highlighted some of Nairobi’s most dangerous roads, naming Outering Road, Thika Road and Eastern Bypass as the top offenders.
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