NTSA Arrests Driver Of Probox Carrying 13 Pupils
During routine checks, the officers discovered 13 learners bundled inside the small car's boot, prompting immediate action.
Prudence Murithi 
A Toyota Probox driver is in police custody awaiting arraignment after being arrested for overloading students in the car.
The driver was intercepted on Tuesday, May 14 by officers from the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) along the Kitale-Kapenguria Highway backed by their counterparts from the National Police Service (NPS).
During routine checks, the officers discovered 13 learners bundled inside the small car's boot, prompting immediate action. NTSA and NPS seized the vehicle and apprehended the driver.
NTSA officials impound a Probox carrying excess students along the Kitale-Kapenguria road on May 14, 2024. /NTSA
"Vehicle found ferrying 13 students impounded along Kitale-Kapenguria Road. The driver has been arrested and will be charged," the NTSA stated.
The driver was accused of contravening traffic regulations and risking the lives of the students seeking safe transport to school as schools reopened.
Following the driver's arrest, NTSA officials quickly mobilized alternative means of transport to ensure the students safely reached their homes.
This swift intervention highlights the authorities' commitment to student safety and compliance with traffic regulations.
The crackdown on the overloaded Probox comes a day after NTSA called for vehicles to undergo road safety compliance checks as schools reopened.
According to the authority, all school transport vehicles must have a functional speed limiter integrated with the NTSA Intelligent Road Safety Management System (IRSMS), a valid inspection certificate, and a Road Service Licence (RSL).
Additionally, vehicles must have functional seat belts and valid vehicle insurance, and drivers must possess the requisite driving license class endorsement and a valid Public Service Vehicle (PSV) badge.
Crucially, vehicles must not be overloaded.
"School administration must put in place measures to ensure full compliance with the requirements of the Traffic Act and the PSV regulations," NTSA announced.
"We urge all motorists to be cautious and mindful of other road users as children go back to school."
The NTSA's proactive measures underscore the importance of adhering to safety regulations to protect the lives of students and ensure a safe journey as they return to their learning institutions.
