Police have been given fresh orders against erecting roadblocks without official approval. 

This directive came after the Inspector General of Police Hilary Mutyambai together with his deputy Edward Mbugua held a meeting with regional and county commanders at the Police Pavilion in Nairobi.

Police officers were also warned against detaining vehicles on the road for long periods of time without proper cause.

The deputy IG Mbugua sent a memo to all county commanders dated September 3, 2021, with the new directive.

“I have directed Ainabkoi Traffic sub-base disbanded for continued laying of a roadblock, detaining vehicle for long hours without cause and complaints of collecting bribes from motorists with impunity despite earlier directives issued for Traffic management,” said Mbugua.

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This comes after several motorists across the country complained of harassment and extortion by police at the unauthorized roadblocks.

He commanded all county commanders to ensure there were no roadblocks, fixed police checks or dentation of vehicles for longer periods than required without explanation.

Mbugua said investigations will be conducted should any member of the public raise such complaints to avoid victimization.

Police road block. PHOTO/COURTESY 

In the event that the investigation establishes that indeed an officer violated the directives, not only stiff action will be taken against the individual officer but the whole sub base will also be disbanded.

“However, when an element of truth will be established, stiff action is taken against the individual errant officer but the whole sub base will be disbanded,” he added.

County commanders and base commanders were told to supervise closely traffic management.