Police Boss Announces Changes to Deployment of Traffic Officers

Mirriam Muli, Deputy Inspector General of Kenya Police, has announced changes to the deployment of traffic officers across the country. 

In a notice to all Regional and County Commanders, the Deputy Inspector of Police directed that only recently trained officers will be deployed in the traffic department.

Muli noted that the recently trained officers are expected to work with integrity in restoring the image of the service.

However, Muli directed other officers who were attached to the traffic department and did not undergo the training to be deployed back to general duties.

"You are directed to deploy back to general duties all those officers who had been attached to traffic duties," Muli ordered through a memo dated Tuesday, December 19.

"No more attachment of officers to traffic duties. Ensure compliance," she insisted.

The changes come days after traffic police officers were barred from carrying firearms while on duty.

The move is expected to end graft cases recorded in the sector and streamline the service. So far, several police officers have been arrested by the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) on bribery allegations.

The new orders are also expected to address cases of accidents in the country. Over 3900 people have died as a result of road accidents this year.

According to Transport Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, the accidents have been attributed to reckless driving, driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs and speeding.

“The majority of road traffic incidents can be prevented by adhering to safety rules. About 90% of accidents result from unsafe road user behaviour. I, therefore implore each citizen to take personal responsibility and minimise the factors that contribute to risky road behaviour,” Murkomen stated.