NAIROBI, Kenya, Dec 18 – Police officers manning roadblocks were Thursday ordered to act against excess passengers in Public Service Vehicles (PSVs) with focus now shifting from crew members.
Inspector General of Police Hilary Mutyambai told a press conference at his Jogoo House office that any excess passenger will be unboarded and the crew allowed to proceed with the journey to the intended destination with the remaining passengers.
“During this season and even after, if you are found in any of our roadblocks as an excess passenger, we shall be dealing with you individually, but not with the vehicle operators. Responsibility does to the passenger,” Mutyambai said.
He emphasized that every passenger will be expected to occupy their assigned seat and belt up in accordance with traffic regulations.
“Motorists must also remain sober and avoid speeding to guard against causing road accidents,” Mutyambai added.
According to Section 100(2) of the Traffic Act Cap 403, for any PSV which carries more persons, baggage or goods than it is licensed to carry, the driver, the conductor and the owner of such vehicle commits an offence each and shall be liable, upon conviction, to a fine not exceeding Sh20,000 and an additional amount of five thousand shillings for each person in excess of the licensed capacity.