Law enforcement agencies have begun coordinated efforts aimed at curbing the growing misuse of escort vehicles and illegal sirens on roads. This trend, characterized by unauthorized claims of right of way, violations of traffic rules such as one-way regulations, and interference with traffic control systems, has raised significant concerns. Additionally, some escort vehicles have been observed assuming roles typically reserved for traffic officers.
SP Kananura Michael, the Community Liaison Officer and Public Relations Officer, emphasized the legal grounds for these operations. Referring to specific sections of the Traffic and Road Safety Act (Amendment) 2020 and the Traffic and Road Safety (Rules of the Road) Regulations 2004, SP Kananura highlighted the authority’s mandate to address these infractions comprehensively.
Responding to public inquiries about vehicles driven by ministry drivers, SP Kananura affirmed that no vehicle, regardless of affiliation, would be exempt from enforcement actions. He clarified that privileges regarding sirens and right of way are restricted to state motorcades or emergency situations as defined by law. Warning of impending impoundments, SP Kananura expressed disappointment at recurrent offenders who had previously faced legal consequences.
The initiative has drawn mixed reactions from the public, with some expressing frustration over the misuse of sirens by vehicles falsely claiming VIP or government status. Concerns were raised about unmarked SUVs with sirens navigating traffic jams by employing unauthorized sirens for road clearance. Additionally, reports surfaced regarding vehicles substituting number plates with VIP stickers, circumventing identification protocols.
Authorities underscored the importance of compliance with traffic regulations to ensure public safety and uphold order on the roads. SP Kananura reiterated the necessity for all motorists to adhere strictly to legal guidelines, emphasizing that enforcement measures would be applied uniformly without exceptions.
Critics of the operation have pointed out instances where VIP-designated vehicles have exploited their status to bypass traffic regulations, citing instances of public inconvenience and safety risks. These concerns have fueled public debate about the equitable application of traffic laws and the need for stringent enforcement to deter misuse of privilege.
Kananura added that as the crackdown intensifies, law enforcement agencies remain committed to fostering a culture of compliance among motorists and concluded that efforts to tackle the misuse of escort vehicles and illegal sirens reflect a broader commitment to ensuring road safety and equitable traffic management across all sectors of society.
