This archive report was first published on 7 January 2020.
On Tuesday, a police crackdown on non-compliant PSV operators in Mombasa resulted in the seizure of at least 200 vehicles and the arrest of 100 drivers.
The operation, led by Changamwe Police boss Issa Mohammed, targeted vehicles along the Mombasa-Nairobi highway in Changamwe, affecting hundreds of learners and workers returning to school and work.
However, students caught up in the crackdown were allowed to continue their journey using alternative means.
According to the area police boss, a majority of the vehicles impounded had been converted into PSVs despite not meeting regulations, with owners seeking to make a profit during the peak season.
Out of the 200 vehicles intercepted, 30 were long-distance trailers and lorries that had been repurposed to ferry passengers due to high fares in normal transport.
Sub-county police commander warned that the crackdown would continue and urged drivers to adhere to road regulations, citing faulty speed governors, worn-out tires, and unlicensed drivers among the violations.
