By Police have apprehended 644 drivers in the past week for various traffic offences as enforcement operations intensify ahead of the festive season.
According to SP Michael Kananura, the Public Relations Officer of the Directorate of Traffic and Road Safety, the arrests included 325 motorists operating vehicles in dangerous mechanical condition, 124 cases of reckless driving such as speeding and dangerous overtaking, and 123 instances of illegal vehicle modification.
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Other offences recorded during the week-long operation included 23 cases of driving under the influence of alcohol, 17 drivers without valid licences, 14 cases of dangerous loading, 10 abandoned vehicles, and eight motorists carrying passengers in dangerous positions.
SP Kananura said the enforcement campaign, code-named “Arrive Alive,” is being conducted countrywide to reduce road crashes and improve compliance with traffic laws during the busy festive period.
He said operations will continue throughout the holidays, targeting additional violations such as breach of route charts, driving without badges or operator licences, possession of forged documents, overloading, and other offences that pose danger to road users.
The Directorate has issued strict guidelines to motorists and transport operators, warning that buses travelling distances of more than 300 kilometres will not be allowed to make return journeys within 24 hours. Only buses with valid route charts and public service vehicle (PSV) licences will be permitted to operate.
“All drivers must have valid driving licences, and bus drivers must display driver badges and a clear photograph inside the vehicle,” SP Kananura said, adding that school buses and unauthorized private vehicles will not be allowed to operate as passenger service vehicles.
He further cautioned that all vehicles must be in sound mechanical condition, including functional brakes, proper tyre pressure, and adequate lighting. Motorists were urged to observe speed limits, especially in areas with high pedestrian activity, and to avoid overtaking in risky areas such as hills, corners, and congested road sections.
SP Kananura also warned against the use of mobile phones and other distractions while driving, stressed mandatory seatbelt use, and reminded motorcyclists and their passengers to wear helmets at all times. He reiterated a zero-tolerance policy on drinking and driving, warning that offenders will be arrested and prosecuted.
The Directorate of Traffic and Road Safety, he said, is working closely with the Ministry of Works and Transport, other government agencies, the private sector, religious institutions, civil society organisations, the media, and transport operators to promote safer roads.
In addition to enforcement, SP Kananura said Police are conducting public education and road safety awareness campaigns across various platforms to sensitise the public on responsible road use.
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