12 matatus barred from road use

Some of the matatus impounded by traffic police during a past crackdown. Photo/FILE

A police crackdown on unroadworthy vehicles in Nairobi on Wednesday resulted in several matatus being barred from using the roads.

The operation started on the city’s Thika Road and 12 matatus’ registration number plates were seized, taking them off the roads until they are re-certified.

The operators of 31 other matatus found to be defective had to pay between Sh3,000 and Sh5,000 to have their vehicles released pending a court appearance on Thursday.

Speed governors

Head of the patrol unit, Joel Sang said his officers were focusing on matatus whose speed governors had been tampered with.

“Most accidents are caused by speeding, and we want to ensure all vehicles are fitted with functional speed governors. We’re also checking vehicles for seat belts, insurance cover as well as drivers’ licences,” he said.

More than 70 people were killed and more than 400 injured in road accidents in December.