IG Kanja Announces Nationwide Crackdown on Matatus Following Nicco Movers Tragedy
The announcement comes in the wake of growing public outrage following the tragic death of a Kenya Medical Training College (KMTC) student who was allegedly pushed from a moving matatu linked to Nicco Sacco, an incident that has reignited concerns over safety standards within Kenya’s public transport industry.
Speaking during the commissioning of a new administration block at Kiamumbi Police Station along Kamiti Road in Nairobi on Tuesday, June 17, Kanja delivered a stern message to operators associated with the popular “Nganya” culture, urging them to comply with traffic regulations or face legal consequences.
“People of Kenya are free to do their business, but they must do their business within the law. So, if you are in the matatu industry and you are not following the law, then you are in problem,” Kanja said.
Nicco Movers Incident Sparks National Concern
The crackdown follows the death of Eugene Mutuku, a KMTC student who reportedly suffered fatal injuries after being thrown out of a moving matatu affiliated with Nicco Sacco.
Kanja confirmed that several suspects connected to the case had already been arrested and remain in police custody as investigations continue.
“I know we have already arrested some, some are hiding somewhere, but sooner or later we are going to get them, because there is no way to hide in this country as long as we have committed crimes. We will get you, it doesn’t matter how long it takes,” he stated.
According to the Inspector General, detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) are actively pursuing additional suspects believed to have gone into hiding.
Rising Road Accidents Raise Alarm
The renewed focus on matatu discipline comes amid increasing concerns over road safety across the country.
Road safety experts have repeatedly linked many urban accidents to dangerous driving practices, including overspeeding, reckless overtaking, and the highly publicized stunts often associated with some matatu operators.
The flashy branding, loud music systems, graffiti artwork, and risky manoeuvres commonly seen among some public service vehicles have become a major concern for regulators seeking to improve safety standards.
NTSA Calls for Reforms
The crackdown also aligns with ongoing efforts by the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) to address rising road carnage.
NTSA Director General Nashon Kondiwa recently argued that the visible culture surrounding some matatus is merely a symptom of deeper structural challenges within the transport sector.
According to NTSA data, road accidents in Kenya have increased significantly over the past year, with fatalities also recording a notable rise.
To address the situation, the authority has proposed nationwide driver retesting beginning next month. The initiative is expected to evaluate the competence of drivers and reinforce compliance with traffic regulations.
The authority is also working closely with agencies such as the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) and the Kenya Urban Roads Authority (KURA) to enhance road safety measures and reduce accidents.
Government Signals Tougher Enforcement
Security and transport authorities say the latest operations are part of a broader government strategy aimed at restoring discipline within the public transport sector.
For thousands of daily commuters, the move represents a potential turning point in efforts to make Kenya’s roads safer.
ALSO READ: KRA Extends Service Hours and Introduces Saturday Operations Ahead of June 30 Tax Filing Deadline
IG Kanja Announces Nationwide Crackdown on Matatus Following Nicco Movers Tragedy
