Motorists using Thika Superhighway are speaking out against what they say is daily extortion by traffic police officers near the Witeithie underpass. Drivers complain that the officers have turned the area into a money-making zone where bribes are collected openly. Many say the police use excuses like routine checks to stop vehicles, but instead of doing real checks, they demand cash from drivers.
The situation has become worse over time, and now most drivers using that section of the road already expect to part with some money.Public Service Vehicle (PSV) operators are suffering the most. These include matatu drivers and bus conductors who move people between towns and estates.
According to several of them, police officers stationed at Witeithie ask for bribes of up to Ksh 200 every time they pass through. One driver said they are no longer worried about car problems or traffic jams the biggest headache now is dealing with police at Witeithie. He mentioned that if you refuse to pay the bribe, officers quickly start threatening to take your vehicle to the station or accuse you of breaking traffic rules that don’t exist.
It has become a routine that drivers feel they have no power to fight.What is more worrying is that the extortion is happening in broad daylight, without any fear from the officers. Drivers feel the police have grown bold because they know no one will question them.
Even when drivers try to record or report the incidents, nothing seems to change. A matatu driver who asked to remain anonymous said this is now like a daily tax that they are forced to pay.
He added that in one week, a PSV operator can lose over Ksh 1,000 to bribes at just that one point on the highway.
Local residents who use the route regularly are also raising concerns. They have joined drivers in calling upon Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja and agencies like the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission to take action.
Many are asking why officers known for such behavior are still working in the same spot despite many complaints. They want thorough investigations done and proper measures taken to clean up the mess.The frustration is growing, and the public is demanding accountability.
People want to use roads without fear or harassment. If nothing is done soon, the trust in the police will continue to fall. Authorities must act now before the situation gets worse.
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