Traffic officer Mazera Haron faced arrest on the busy Mtwapa-Malindi road in Kilifi County after authorities caught him allegedly asking for a bribe. Officers from the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission found Sh13,750 in cash on him during the operation.
The arrest took place recently amid a wider push to stop bribery on Kenyan roads. Many motorists complain about traffic police stopping vehicles for small issues and then demanding money to let them go.
The Mtwapa-Malindi stretch sees heavy traffic, especially with tourists heading to the coast and locals moving goods.
Haron worked as a regular traffic officer along that route. Reports say he stopped a driver and asked for cash to overlook some offense.
The driver tipped off EACC, who set up a sting. When Haron took the money, detectives moved in quick.
They recovered the Sh13,750, believed to be from several motorists that day. EACC often treats marked notes in these operations to prove the case.
This fits into a pattern of arrests in late 2025. The commission stepped up efforts during the festive season. Travel picks up then, and so do complaints about extortion.
In December alone, EACC nabbed officers in places like Likoni-Lungalunga road, Kisumu-Kisii highway, and other spots. They caught groups demanding cash without proper checks.
Bribery on roads is an old problem in Kenya. Drivers say it adds costs and delays. Some pay small amounts like Sh200 or Sh500 to avoid hassle. But it builds up. EACC estimates huge sums change hands monthly across the country.
The government wants to clean it up. New rules and digital payments for fines aim to cut direct contact. Mobile courts handle cases on the spot sometimes. But old habits stick for some officers.
Haron will appear in court soon. Charges could include soliciting and receiving a bribe. If convicted, he faces fines or jail time. The case might lead to suspension from duty while investigations continue.
Motorists along the coast welcomed the news. That road links Mombasa to Malindi and beyond. Trucks, matatus, and private cars use it daily. Tourists complain about stops too.
EACC urges people to report issues. They have hotlines and online ways to complain safely. Many arrests start from public tips.
Road safety ties in here. When officers focus on bribes instead of real dangers, accidents rise. Overloaded vehicles or drunk drivers might pay and go.
Kilifi County sees its share of these cases. Beaches draw visitors, but roads need better enforcement.
As 2025 ends, more operations likely. EACC says they watch high-risk areas close.
Haron’s arrest sends a message. No one is above the law, they say. Drivers hope it leads to smoother trips.
The commission processes the case now. More details might come after court.
People in Mtwapa and Malindi talk about it. Some knew officers who took cash. Others say most do the job right.
In the end, cleaning roads of bribery helps everyone. Safer travel, fair rules. That’s the goal. Stories like this show progress, but work remains. One arrest at a time.
