This archive report was first published on 5 December 2019.
On December 5, 2019, the National Police Service made a significant move by withdrawing the Alcoblow tests racket that had been a source of corruption and extortion for years.
The decision to quash the racket was a direct response to President Kenyatta's order to the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) to step down and hand over responsibility to the traffic police.
However, instead of serving the intended purpose of enhancing road safety, the Alcoblow tests became a lucrative business for some senior police officers.
Motorists were routinely arrested and forced to pay bribes of up to Sh20,000, with an additional Sh10,000 for car towing charges, in order to avoid being locked up and arraigned in court.
It is estimated that the corrupt officers were collecting up to Sh2 million every night, a staggering amount that highlights the extent of the corruption.
Inspector-General of Police Hillary Mutyambai has since stated that roadblocks must be used sparingly and only with the authorization of regional police bosses.
The withdrawal of the Alcoblow tests racket is a significant step in the fight against corruption within the police service and a testament to the National Police Service's commitment to reform.
