Following a traffic crackdown on Tuesday night in Kikuyu Sub County, bodaboda operators have been warned against operating while drunk.
During the operation, eight riders were arrested for being drunk.
Speaking from her office yesterday, area traffic base commander Inspector Elizabeth Wakuloba said that the riders are endangering the lives of road users and themselves by being drunk.
“The ones we arrested were not only drunk but they were speeding. This is a real threat on our roads that we can avoid. Some accidents happen because of careless road users such as those who drink and ride,” said the Inspector.
She added that such road users will be arrested and charged in accordance to the law.
Wakuloba issued a stern warning to riders without reflective jackets and helmets. “Six out of the eight we arrested didn’t even have helmets and reflectors which is another mistake on the roads,” said Inspector Wakuloba.
The base commander also cautioned passengers not to be ignorant while seeking bodaboda services adding that some passengers are ignorant and do not mind whether the riders obey traffic rules.
“I urge all passengers to also join forces with the police by not allowing to be transported by a rider breaking rules. You have to have a reflector jacket and a helmet as a passenger and ensure the motorist is sober by just observing him. If you see the motorist operating without that or even drunk, report the matter to the police,” said Inspector Wakuloba.
Nathan Kuria, a rider in the town said that the few riders who flout traffic rules are those who operate at night.
He added that most of them are youths who engage in the business without any knowledge of using the roads.