Transport Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir has announced the immediate return of roadside breathalyser checkpoints (alcoblow) across major roads nationwide.
Speaking on Sunday, April 6, Chirchir revealed that the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA), in collaboration with the National Police Service, will begin mounting the checkpoints this week.
The initiative comes under newly enacted legal frameworks, particularly the Traffic (Drink-Driving) Rules, 2025, passed through amendments to the Traffic Act, CAP 403.
“Any person found driving under the influence beyond the legal limit will face fines of up to Ksh100,000 or imprisonment of up to two years, or both,” said Chirchir. Offenders will also face a one-year disqualification from obtaining a driver’s license.
The CS noted that the reintroduction of the “alcoblow” enforcement is backed by laws re-gazetted for immediate effect after a court challenge had previously nullified similar provisions.
Chirchir also announced new regulations targeting the broader transport sector. NTSA will now oversee the inspection of both private and public vehicles, including school buses and driving school cars, through licensed private inspection centers.
Commercial vehicles weighing over 3,480 kg will also be subject to new operational rules under the Operation of Commercial Service Vehicles Rules 2025.
The announcement follows a tragic accident on April 5 along the Kaplong-Kapkatet road that claimed 15 lives.
Chirchir visited the scene, offering condolences and promising stricter enforcement to prevent further tragedies.
“We did not have to get here. We will implement these regulations and take stern action to safeguard lives,” he said.
