NPS orders nationwide traffic crackdown after 31 people killed in road accidents in 2026
By Nancy Marende, January 7, 2026The National Police Service (NPS) has ordered a nationwide crackdown on traffic violations following a worrying spike in road accidents that have claimed the lives of 31 people in the first six days of 2026.
In a statement on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, the NPS expressed deep concern over the rising number of fatal road crashes, describing the trend as alarming and unacceptable.
“This has been accompanied by devastating injuries, destruction of property and other grim realities as a consequence. This is unacceptably alarming and cannot be allowed to continue. It is a crisis that demands immediate, collective and decisive action,” read the statement in part.
According to NPS, preliminary investigations indicate that most of the accidents were caused by preventable human error.
The leading factors include reckless driving, speeding, driver fatigue, driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, and persistent traffic violations by boda boda riders, such as riding on walkways and travelling against traffic.
In response, the Inspector General of Police has directed all regional, county, and sub-county traffic police commanders to immediately implement stringent, continuous, and high-visibility enforcement measures nationwide.
The crackdown will target all forms of traffic violations, with particular focus on speeding, drunk driving, unroadworthy vehicles, and compliance with public service vehicle (PSV) regulations.
Further, the NPS said breathalyser tests will be intensified, while targeted operations will be conducted at accident blackspots identified through crash-mapping data.
Courts have also been placed on standby to handle traffic-related cases and take swift action against offenders.
The police noted that the enforcement measures are being implemented in collaboration with the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) and other transport stakeholders under a multi-agency framework that has remained active throughout the festive season.
While enforcement remains central to road safety efforts, the NPS emphasised that reducing road carnage also requires personal responsibility and common sense from all road users.
Drivers, pedestrians, cyclists, boda boda riders, and passengers were urged to strictly observe traffic rules, especially as schools and colleges reopen after the festive period.
The police further appealed to PSV owners, Saccos, and boda boda associations to enhance self-regulation by installing and monitoring speed governors, managing driver fatigue through proper shift schedules, and ensuring regular vehicle maintenance.
“Likewise, we appeal to Saccos, owners of public service vehicles (PSVs), and boda boda associations to rigorously self-regulate, install and monitor speed governors, manage driver fatigue through proper and verifiable shift schedules and regular vehicle maintenance.”
Members of the public were encouraged to remain vigilant while travelling and to report erratic or dangerous road behaviour to the nearest police station, any law enforcement officer, or through the toll-free emergency numbers 999, 911, and 112. Reports can also be made anonymously via the #FichuaKwaDCI hotline.