At least 42 passenger bus drivers in Mbeya Region have had their licenses suspended between January and June this year for committing serious traffic violations, authorities have confirmed.
Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Fraisser Kashai, who heads the Road Safety Unit under the Police’s Operations and Training Division, issued a stern reminder to all public transport drivers to adhere strictly to road safety regulations to help reduce road accidents.
Speaking on July 18, 2025, after inspecting buses at the main terminal in Mbeya City, DCP Kashai warned that any driver found flouting traffic laws would face legal consequences without exception.
“The Police will not hesitate to take legal action against any driver who endangers the lives of passengers or other road users. Road safety compliance is non-negotiable,” said DCP Kashai.
Mbeya Regional Traffic Police Commander, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Notker Kilewa, said the regional traffic unit is actively enforcing safety rules, including the suspension of licenses for repeat offenders.
“We have suspended 42 driving licenses between January and June this year, each for a period of three months. The key violations include speeding, reckless overtaking, and driving under the influence,” SSP Kilewa said.
He stressed that such infractions pose serious risks to passengers, and the police will continue to act firmly to protect lives.
The Land Transport Regulatory Authority (LATRA) is also playing a critical role in tracking misconduct.
According to Shaban Mdende, LATRA’s Mbeya Regional Officer, most passenger buses are fitted with electronic monitoring devices to track movements in real-time.
“Out of the 42 suspended drivers, 26 were identified through the Vehicle Tracking System (VTS), which monitors bus behaviour on the road. This system has strengthened our enforcement capacity,” Mdende noted.
During the inspection, authorities assessed vehicle roadworthiness, verified licenses, conducted alcohol tests, and offered passengers and drivers basic road safety education.
According to DCP Kashai, the exercise aimed not only at enforcement but also at ensuring compliance with previously issued directives and enhancing public awareness to help prevent road accidents.
“We want to ensure that both drivers and passengers understand the value of safety. Preventing accidents requires shared responsibility,” he said.