Security tightened as tourists flock Taita Taveta

India Ambassador to Kenya Namgya Khampa at a prayer service at the Voi commonwealth war graves to mark the memorial event in Taita Taveta county on November 24, 2024. [Renson Mnyamwezi, Standard]

The Taita Taveta County Security Committee has developed a work plan to effectively secure lives and property during the festivities.

Area County Commissioner Josephine Onunga said yesterday that security measures had been put in place to ensure residents enjoy the Christmas holidays.

The assurance comes amid concerns about the recent killings of dozens of boda boda riders and increased cases of mugging, burglary, and gender-based violence in the county.

Acting Police Commander James Musyimi announced that police were on high alert to protect lives and property during the holidays.

"We have a security work plan to fight crime during the Christmas and New Year festivities, and we are not taking any chances. Residents, irrespective of their status, must follow the law," said the police commander.

Musyimi warned operators of entertainment joints to stick to the guidelines set by the county liquor licensing laws, saying any breach of the law will attract serious consequences.

"Any operator who will allow underage children into their premises will be arrested and prosecuted. In addition, the security committee will shut down such premises for the public good," he said.

Onunga stressed the need for close cooperation between residents and the security personnel to facilitate socio-economic development.

"The county has recorded a huge number of tourists owing to its proximity to Tsavo National Park. Local hotels have recorded full bookings from both domestic and foreign visitors," stated the county commissioner.

Onunga also challenged parents to protect their teenage children from undue influence during the festive season. "Let us all unite to take care of our under-18 children. As parents we should ensure that at any given time we are accountable for them," the administrator stated.