Traffic police have arrested 473 drivers in a week-long nationwide crackdown on unsafe vehicles, forged documents, and traffic violations, authorities confirmed on Monday.
The operations also led to dozens of motorists being charged for serious offences, as police reminded road users to observe traffic laws.
According to Traffic Police spokesperson Micheal Kananura, the enforcement sweep targeted mechanical faults, illegal modifications, and other violations that increase the risk of accidents. During the operations, officers identified:
- 225 vehicles in dangerous mechanical condition
- 142 with illegal vehicle modifications
- 28 for invalid or missing driving licences
- 27 for dangerous loading
- 16 for route chart violations
- 10 for lacking route charts
- 9 for driving without badges
- 8 for forged documents
- 8 abandoned vehicles
Police emphasized the importance of obeying traffic rules, noting that speeding and careless overtaking remain leading causes of road fatalities. Most deaths on the roads, the statement said, are preventable.
Authorities also advised motorists to maintain vehicles in proper mechanical condition, and for bus and taxi operators to avoid carrying excess passengers or operating without valid licences or badges.
Passengers were encouraged to report any traffic violations, while cyclists and motorbike riders were reminded to wear helmets and reflective gear.
“Campaigning is temporary, whereas life is permanent,” the statement said, appealing to all road users to prioritize safety and legality on the roads.
The enforcement drive comes as road use increases during festive periods, school breaks, and political campaigns, raising the risk of congestion and crashes.
Traffic police warned that targeted checks and CCTV monitoring will be intensified nationwide.
Investigations into recent crashes indicate recurring causes including:
- Speeding and careless overtaking, especially at night
- Driver fatigue
- Poor vehicle condition (faulty brakes, worn tyres, defective lighting)
- Dangerous loading and overloading
Key offences police say will continue to be targeted include:
- Driving without a valid licence
- Vehicles in unsafe mechanical condition
- Illegal or modified vehicle lighting
- Bus and taxi violations (route charts, badges)
- Speeding and reckless overtaking
- Dangerous loading and excess passengers
- Abandoned vehicles
Traffic enforcement officers urged both drivers and communities to “intensify efforts to protect lives on our roads” and warned that enforcement will include roadside stops, vehicle inspections, and penalties for violations.
