Police Link Rise In PSV Pickpocketing To Unauthorized Drivers, Conductors

The National Police Service has attributed the increasing cases of pickpocketing in public service vehicles (PSVs) to part-time or unauthorized drivers and conductors.

In a notice issued on Friday ahead of the Easter holiday and school closures, NPS Director of Corporate Communication and Spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga urged public transport stakeholders to take firm and collective action to curb the problem.

“We have noted with concern a rise in pickpocketing incidents in PSVs, mainly attributed to part-time or unauthorized drivers and conductors,” Muchiri said.

He also highlighted the dangers posed by road traffic incidents, noting that they are a leading cause of injuries and fatalities, resulting in immense suffering and significant economic losses for victims, their families, and the nation at large.

“Records reveal that most of these incidents are caused by preventable human errors, including speeding, dangerous overtaking, drink-driving, overloading, driver fatigue, and failure to cross roads with due care, among others,” he added.

Drivers were urged to be extra cautious while transporting school children as they head home for the holidays.

Muchiri further warned of heavy rains across various parts of the country, creating hazardous conditions such as poor visibility and flooded roads, which could contribute to an increase in road accidents.