Matatu Operators Accuse NTSA, Police Of Forcefully Demanding Bribes From Drivers
In a press release by the Federation of Public Transport Sector (FPTS) on Wednesday, the Matatu operators complained over the latest crackdown by police and NTSA.
The road safety compliance audit is meant to enforce road traffic rules, but the Matatu operators say it has turned into a hunt down for bribes.
FPTS Chairman Edwins Mukabanah claimed the officers are coercing and intimidating motorists, demanding bribes for ‘flimsy’ vehicle defects.
“The audit has turned out to be an exercise where NTSA and Traffic Police Officers coerce, intimidate and forcefully demand bribes of between Ksh. 5,000 and Ksh. 10,000 for flimsy vehicle defects which lead to vehicles being declare un-road-worthy number plates removed,” said Mukabanah.
They claimed the exercise is insensitive to socially disadvantaged passengers and ill-timed due to the country's economic state, adding that it is aimed at raising revenue for the government and enriching NTSA and Traffic Police officers, rather than helping the public transport sector.
“All this is being done against the backdrop of increased fuel cost, increased insurance premiums, introduction of VAT, increased Advance Tax, increased price of tyres and spare parts. At the same time operators are unable to increase fares due to the fact that Kenyans do not have the ability to pay due to the had economic situation in the country.”
The group says that on June 16, they engaged NTSA and NPS to address the harassment. They promised to consult their superiors on halting the exercise, but the agreement has not been honored.
The Matatu operators added that they have also attempted to meet Ministry of Transport officials to halt the extortion, but no action has been taken.
They want the government to intervene in preventing officials from harassing and extorting money from members.

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