[Boda boda cyclists in western region have been banned from carrying coffins on their motorbikes. Photo/Courtesy]
Boda boda cyclists in Western Kenya have been barred from carrying caskets on their motorbikes across major towns.
The directive was given by the Regional Police commander Geoffrey Njogu, who also warned them against creating commotion while accompanying bodies for burial.
He on Wednesday, noted that those who would violate the order will be prosecuted.
“Ferrying bodies on motorcycles inconveniences other road users. Besides scaring people, it is also not healthy to carry bodies on motorcycle that is used by other commuters. We have a special vehicle known as a hearse meant for that job,” said Njogu.
The police boss reiterated it was against the law to ferry bodies on motorbikes and also asked the riders to mourn the dead in a proper way.
“It is only hearses or ambulances that are organized to carry bodies. Carrying bodies on motorcycles is illegal. Let us mourn in a decent way and not creating disturbance on the road by riding in a careless way and causing accidents in the name of escorting the dead from the mortuary. Many people have died because of such carelessness,” he added.