Matatu owners welcomed the nationwide crackdown launched by the police on vehicles that contravene the Traffic Act (Cap 403), Section 55, which dictates laws on the state and conditions vehicles should be maintained.
Speaking to Kenyans.co.ke traffic coordinator and member of the Association of Matatu Operators (AMO) Branden Marshall stated that the exercise would aid in improving the sector.
He, however, urged the police to shun intimidating operators and issue a stipulated period of time for matatu owners to rectify modifications on vehicles that violate traffic rules.
Marshall stated that flashy city matatus embedded with expensive exterior lights and accessories would lose the most after police were ordered to impound vehicles that illegally installed lamps, modified illuminating lights, and red and blue lights.
Vehicles with opaque rear lights, flashing lights, flickering lights, LED illuminating bars, and unauthorized sirens were also targeted
“The high cost, skill, and efficiency put in ensuring Matatus remain trendy and modish stands to go down the drain following the surprise move that caught most of these vehicles unaware.
“However, all matatus should comply with the traffic rules and ensure they have all required documents since road safety comes first,” Branden stated.
The practice of prim, over-the-top modifications on matatus that involve mounting shiny artistic designs has earned the Kenyan transport sector giants the popular name ‘Matwana Matatu Culture’, loved and abhorred by some in equal measure.
Most Matatus, especially those plying Nairobi routes, are known for notorious antics on the road, which include using decorative blinding lights and deafening sirens that pose a danger to other road users.
Section 58 (sub-section 1) of the Traffic Act states that anyone guilty of contravening Section 55 risks a two-year jail term, a Ksh400,000 fine, or both.
Traffic police and National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) have in the past apprehended rogue drivers and touts and further impounded vehicles violating traffic laws.
NTSA was, however, removed from the highways and mandated with the inspection of vehicles and provision of licenses.