Man Jailed for 3 Years Without Fine for Vandalising Mau Summit–Nyahururu Highway Signage

A man has been sentenced to three years in prison, without the option of a fine, after being found guilty of vandalising road infrastructure along the busy Mau Summit–Nyahururu Highway. The ruling underscores the government’s determination to crack down on the destruction of public assets and ensure the safety of road users.

According to the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA), the suspect was apprehended on Tuesday following a tip-off from vigilant members of the public. Working closely with the Salgaa base, KeNHA officers caught the individual in the act of vandalising a road sign between Sobea and Westlands.

In a statement, KeNHA noted that the stiff punishment serves as a strong deterrent against acts of vandalism targeting critical road infrastructure. “The suspect has since been sentenced and will be jailed for 3 years without an option of a fine. The Authority urges all Kenyans to protect road furniture and report any acts of vandalism to any KeNHA office or the nearest police station,” the notice read.

KeNHA further reminded the public that infrastructure such as signage, guardrails, and bumps are not just government property but life-saving tools for motorists and pedestrians. Their destruction, the Authority warned, compromises safety and increases the risk of accidents.

This case is not isolated. Just last month, two men were fined Ksh1 million each, or in default, sentenced to one and a half years in prison, for unlawfully removing a road bump sign along the Nakuru–Kabarak Road near Kabarak University. The court ruled that their actions posed grave dangers to motorists by denying them crucial warnings.

Under the Scrap Metal Act No. 1 of 2015, the destruction, removal, or interference with road infrastructure is punishable by up to three years in prison, hefty fines, or both. Offenders may also be compelled to cover the cost of repairs or replacement.