NAIROBI, Kenya — The National Police Service (NPS) has raised alarm over a sharp increase in road traffic accidents that have killed at least 31 people in the first six days of 2026, prompting the Inspector General to order an immediate nationwide enforcement crackdown targeting major traffic violations.
In a press statement issued on January 7, the police said the surge in fatalities, injuries, and destruction of property amounted to a national crisis that requires “immediate, collective and decisive action.” The NPS said preliminary analysis shows that most of the accidents were preventable and linked to human error.
According to the police, key causes include reckless driving, speeding, driver fatigue, driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, and persistent traffic violations by boda boda riders, including riding the wrong way on highways and using pedestrian walkways.
“This is unacceptably alarming and cannot be allowed to continue,” the NPS said, noting that every life lost on Kenyan roads is one too many.
The police said they have been working alongside the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) and other transport sector stakeholders throughout the festive period to enforce traffic laws, but recent trends necessitated more robust and visible action.
As a result, the Inspector General has directed all Regional, County, and Sub-County Traffic Commanders to roll out sustained, high-visibility enforcement operations across the country.
The operations will focus on speeding, drunk-driving, unroadworthy vehicles, public service vehicle (PSV) compliance, and intensified use of breathalysers.
The NPS said courts have been placed on standby to ensure swift and appropriate action is taken against offenders.
Targeted operations will also be enhanced at accident blackspots identified through police crash-mapping systems. The Service said it will work collaboratively with all relevant stakeholders to address the root causes of recurrent crashes in these high-risk areas.
While enforcement will remain central, the police stressed that road safety is a shared responsibility requiring basic common sense and compliance by all road users.
“We urge all drivers, pedestrians, cyclists, boda boda riders and passengers to strictly observe traffic rules and regulations,” the statement said, noting that the risk is heightened as pupils and students return to schools and colleges after the festive break.
The NPS also called on Saccos, PSV owners, and boda boda associations to strengthen self-regulation, monitor speed governors, enforce proper and verifiable driver shift schedules, and ensure regular vehicle maintenance to reduce fatigue-related crashes.
Members of the public were urged to remain vigilant and report erratic or suspicious behaviour on the roads to the nearest police station or through toll-free channels.
Reports can be made via 999, 911, or 112, anonymously through the #FichuaKwaDCI line on 0800 722 203, or via WhatsApp on 0709 570 000.
The police extended condolences to families that have lost loved ones in recent crashes and wished a speedy recovery to those injured.
“We shall not relent in ensuring road carnage is contained on our roads,” the NPS said, reaffirming its commitment to protecting life and property while calling for full public cooperation.
The statement was signed by Muchiri Nyaga, Director of Corporate Communication and Spokesperson of the National Police Service.
