NAIROBI, Kenya, Dec 26 – As Kenyans travel to various parts of the country during this festive season, Inspector General of police Hillary Mutyambai has urged Kenyans to avoid using one vehicle as a precautionary measure.
The period has in the past been characterized by a series of road fatalities.
On Christmas day, 7 lives were lost in a road accident. Of the dead, 4 are from one family according to police.
The accident occurred after a Subaru and a BMW collided along Nairobi- Mombasa highway.
The BMW ferrying a family of four burst into flames immediately after the incident. Three people were burnt beyond recognition according to police.
“I wish all Kenyans Merry Christmas but I urge those who are driving not to drive at dangerous speeds and I advise Kenyans to avoid moving in one vehicle as a family because we want to take care of your family and other families who are also travelling,” the police boss said.
The number of road accidents fatalities across the country was 3,707 in 2020 compared to 4,347 by mid-December 2021, the highest in five years, representing a 17.3 percent increase.
The NTSA’s December 14 road safety status report stated that 4,347 people were seriously injured, up from 3,707 last year, during the same period.
Motorcyclists accounted for the highest number of those killed, with 1634 deaths, followed by pedestrians at 1477 while passengers were third at 727, with drivers coming fourth at 426.
Meanwhile, the police boss has assured Kenyans of security as they celebrate the festive season.
Speaking on Saturday during a tour of various police stations in Machakos County, Mutyambai said police had heightened vigilance across the country during the season.
He has however urged members of the public to report any suspicious activity for action to be taken.
“I appeal to members of the public to volunteer information that may complement our efforts in the fight against crime,” he said.
At least 3,000 prison service officers have been seconded to the National Police Service (NPS) in efforts to boost security during the festive season.
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