Police tighten security over Christmas break

The Government has asked Kenyans to be alert during this festive season to avoid any mishaps even as it steps up security across the country.

Police Spokesperson Zipporah Mboroki told The Standard that although all necessarily measures had been put in place, Kenyans should play their part by being the eyes and ears of the police.

"There are simple things that Kenyans can do this festive season that would help in preventing crime and saving lives. These include being aware of their surroundings and knowing the people near you and what they are doing. Be conscious of unattended luggage in bus termini and public places, notify your neighbours if you are travelling and alert security officers if you spot people acting in a weird manner. The responsibility of security rests with all people, not just the police," she said.

The State has deployed all uniformed forces, such as the regular and Administration Police (AP), as well as the Kenya Prison Services, National Youth Service and Kenya Forest Service.

Ms Mboroki said the police are focusing on places of worship and entertainment joints to stave off possible terrorist attacks.

She said if Kenyans were extra vigilant during this festive season, they could keep terrorists and other criminals at bay.

Thousands are travelling to various parts of the country to spend the Christmas holiday with their families or social places for merrymaking and entertainment.

Deserted urban homes have often been targeted by gangsters and petty criminals who usually scale up their theft and violent robbery activities during the festive season, but Ms Mboroki put them on notice, warning they will be confronted by police who will be on 24-hour patrol.

In the North Rift, county leaders and security agencies assured residents of a calm holiday. West Pokot Commissioner Seif Matata said more security personnel have been stationed in the Turkwel region to curb banditry.

There is heavy police presence in Kisumu County. Nyanza Regional Co-ordinator of Police Charles Narangwe said the security agents have been positioned for surveillance particularly in supermarkets, nightclubs, parks, informal settlements and streets. Officers also intensified patrols along the county's major roads.

"People should not be worried of their security. We are doing everything possible to ensure everyone is safe," he said, adding that areas whose security could be compromised have been targeted for more personnel deployment.

In Mombasa, County Beach Inspectorate Unit has started patrolling the Jomo Kenyatta Public Beach, a popular site for holidaymakers.

"Harassment of beach goers has been cited as a major impediment to the growth of coastal tourism. The new unit hopes to compliment good efforts by other law enforcers like the Kenya Wildlife Service in ensuring beaches are free of harassment and beach goers can enjoy their time on the beaches,'' said Tourism Executive Job Tumbo.

Mr Tumbo said they were in process of formulating ways on how best they can equip, brand and fully operationalise the beach inspectorate unit in the New Year.

In Taita/Taveta County, boda boda operators were banned from operating at night during the Christmas season. The ban also affects tuk tuk operators, with police warning that those found operating beyond midnight will be arrested and prosecuted.

Voi OCPD Joshua Lutukai noted that criminals had been using some operators to commit crimes.

"Some of the boda bodas operating at night in the region have no registration numbers while the drivers have no licenses. It is very easy for criminals to use them and that is why we have taken measures to protect the lives and property," said the police boss.

Elsewhere in Kericho, County Police Commander Rose Muchuma and Commissioner Lucy Mulili said police patrols would be increased within the urban and rural centres, supermarkets and social places.

"We are not taking anything for granted and are assuring all county residents that security agencies are going to provide surety around the clock in a bid to protect their lives and properties from criminals who might attempt to take advantage of the festive season to conduct their activities," she said.

She urged locals to remain alert and co-operate with security officers in a bid to boost security.

Ms Mboroki further advised those travelling to their rural homes to take extra precaution to avoid road accidents.

"Board only roadworthy vehicles and ensure the drivers of such vehicles do not speed or are under the influence of alcohol. Those who want to drink and drive will be hunted down by police," she warned.

A spot check by The Standard around Nairobi revealed that police had arrested a number of people for committing various offences.

"We are also concentrating our efforts on crime hotspots such as informal settlements where robberies are usually high during festive seasons. Our officers will not give any quarter for criminals to ruin the festive season for Kenyans," the spokesperson said.