Police Inspector General Joseph Boinnet warns against use of fireworks during New Year celebrations

Nairobi, Kenya - Inspector General of Police Joseph Boinnet has warned against using fireworks during New Year festivities without prior authorisation.

The order was directed towards individuals, hoteliers and other establishments that intend to set off fireworks as part of the celebrations.

"We wish to advise that no one is allowed to set off any manner of fireworks without the necessary authorisation from the Ministry of Mining which will in turn alert the nearest police station or camp," Boinnet said in a press statement.

He said the directive is as a result of elevated threat of terrorism and therefore security officers need to know when and where to expect celebratory fireworks.

Boinnet commended Kenyans and tourists for the peaceful manner in which Christmas was celebrated and said asked for similar tranguility.

The Inspector General also reminded Kenyans to be fully conscious of their own surrounding and to alert the police in case anything that is out of the ordinary is noted.