This archive report was first published on 9 May 2021.
On Sunday, May 9, 2021, a massive traffic jam occurred on the Nairobi-Kisumu Highway due to police roadblocks mounted in search of fugitives from Uganda.
According to Kisumu County police commander Samuel Anampiu, police conducted the raid but failed to provide further details.
As a result of the roadblocks, traffic was severely congested at Ahero, with some travellers stuck for hours. Five Pakistani nationals were arrested during the crackdown, with three apprehended at the scene and two others previously arrested at Kisian area of Kisumu West sub-county.
Travellers on the route expressed frustration at the situation, with some complaining that traffic was still heavy as late as 5pm. A video shared on social media showed vehicles tightly parked together on the highway, with some attempting to use off-road paths to get ahead.
"I'm currently at the scene it's too bad, very hectic around here and we can't even move. Ahero police traffic kindly do something," confirmed Mumbo Karani.
"Police roadblock at Ahero is a complete mess. The tailback is near Awasi. I suspect the police concerned are working with hawkers to create a market," added another traveller.
"Why is there such a massive roadblock and jam on the Kisumu Ahero road? We've been stuck in traffic since 2pm and we're en route to Nairobi!" complained another.
