Police tighten security, traffic enforcement ahead of Easter holiday rush

As Kenyans prepare for the Easter holiday, the government has rolled out a raft of security and traffic measures aimed at ensuring public safety during one of the busiest travel periods of the year.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, the National Police Service (NPS) assured citizens, residents, and visitors that comprehensive plans are in place to manage increased movement across the country. 

The holiday coincides with the closure of schools for the first term and the onset of the rainy season, factors that traditionally heighten risks on the roads and in public spaces.

Inspector General Douglas Kanja said the police are working closely with other government agencies to enhance safety nationwide. 

The collaboration focuses largely on road safety enforcement, crime prevention, and emergency response preparedness.

According to the NPS, the Easter period is expected to see a surge in long-distance travel, social gatherings, and tourism activities. 

These trends often come with increased road accidents, congestion, and security concerns, prompting authorities to adopt a multi-agency approach.

Among the key measures announced is the intensification of traffic operations across major highways and urban centres. 

Officers will be deployed in larger numbers to enforce compliance with traffic rules, including speed limits, proper vehicle documentation, and passenger safety regulations.

Motorists, boda boda operators, and public service vehicle (PSV) drivers have been urged to exercise caution and adhere strictly to road safety guidelines. 

The police emphasized the importance of avoiding dangerous behaviours such as drunk driving, overloading, and distracted driving, all of which have contributed significantly to road accidents in recent months.

Pedestrians have also been advised to use designated crossing points and remain alert, especially in busy towns and highways where traffic volumes are expected to increase sharply.

In addition to enforcement, the NPS has called on vehicle owners to ensure their cars are roadworthy before embarking on long journeys. 

Routine maintenance checks, officials say, can help prevent mechanical failures that often lead to accidents.

Beyond the roads, security agencies have stepped up surveillance and patrols in key public areas. These include shopping malls, markets, places of worship, entertainment venues, transport termini, and other critical infrastructure. The move is aimed at deterring crime and ensuring rapid response in case of emergencies.

Police presence will also be heightened in tourist destinations, where large crowds are expected during the holiday period.

At the same time, the NPS has appealed to members of the public to remain vigilant and cooperate with law enforcement officers. Citizens are encouraged to report suspicious activities promptly to help prevent potential security incidents.

The latest measures come amid growing concern over rising road accidents in the country since the beginning of 2026. 

Authorities, including the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA), are considering additional interventions such as mandatory medical checks and digital monitoring systems for drivers.

With the Easter holiday approaching, police say the success of these measures will depend not only on enforcement but also on public cooperation.

“Road safety and security are a shared responsibility,” the statement noted, urging all Kenyans to play their part in ensuring a safe and incident-free holiday season.