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The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) officers were recently captured on video removing the number plates from the flashy "Money Fest" matatu operating along Ngong Road, Nairobi.
The move followed a public outcry after the vehicle was seen flouting traffic rules, including reckless overtaking, with traffic officers allegedly standing by without intervening.
NTSA’s Crackdown on Traffic Violations
According to NTSA guidelines, removing number plates is a key enforcement tool used against vehicles that fail to comply with road safety regulations.
The authority targets vehicles operating without valid inspection certificates, those that pose a danger to road users, or those engaging in illegal activities.
The removal of number plates renders a vehicle unroadworthy and unfit for operation until it resolves its compliance issues.
By detaching the number plates, NTSA effectively prevents these vehicles from being used until they are brought back into compliance, thereby reducing the risk of accidents.
The Traffic Act says that, "Where a police officer, licensing officer or inspector makes an order under subsection (4) he may remove the vehicle identification plates and the vehicle licence and, if he does so, shall deliver them to the Authority to be kept while that order remains in force."
This measure is aimed at promoting road safety and reducing the number of traffic violations, especially by public service vehicles.
Public Concern Over "Money Fest"
The "Money Fest" matatu had previously been the subject of controversy when it underwent inspection by NTSA amid scrutiny over its elaborate design and alleged links to President William Ruto’s son George Ruto.
Despite this, the vehicle has continued to attract attention, with the latest incident reigniting debates on the enforcement of traffic laws in Kenya.
This latest action by NTSA serves as a warning to other public service vehicle operators about the consequences of disregarding traffic laws.