Janice R. Andrews
The Kenyan government is taking comprehensive steps to ensure public safety during the upcoming festive season, implementing an extensive security strategy that involves recalling all police officers and deploying over 10,000 security personnel nationwide.
In a press conference on December 4, Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo detailed a multi-agency approach designed to protect citizens during a period of increased travel, social gatherings, and tourism. The security operation will integrate personnel from various services, including the National Police Service, Kenya Prisons Service, Kenya Wildlife Service, Kenya Forestry Service, and Kenya Coast Guard Service.
Enhanced Security Strategies
Special security units, featuring undercover operatives and an all-female SWAT team, will conduct heightened surveillance. These efforts will be centrally coordinated through the National Multi-Agency Command Centre (NMACC) at Lang’ata Barracks, supported by regional and county command hubs.
Acknowledging historical challenges during holiday seasons, Omollo emphasized the government’s proactive approach to preventing potential crime increases. “We have strategically developed this robust plan to mitigate any potential security risks,” he explained.
Road Safety Priorities
Recognizing the surge in holiday travel, additional traffic officers will be strategically deployed to enforce road safety regulations and reduce accident risks. Their primary focus will be preventing reckless driving and ensuring smooth traffic flow.
Community Involvement
The Interior Ministry is calling for active citizen participation, urging Kenyans to:
- Remain vigilant
- Report suspicious activities
- Cooperate with security teams
Event organizers and shopping mall owners are specifically requested to collaborate closely with security personnel to manage crowd safety effectively.
“Our primary commitment is ensuring a safe and peaceful festive season for all Kenyans,” Omollo stated, expressing gratitude to security personnel for their dedication.
Citizens are encouraged to utilize provided hotline numbers and local police stations to report any incidents promptly. The government aims to create a secure environment that allows everyone to enjoy the holiday celebrations.
With this comprehensive security framework in place, the Kenyan government assures its citizens of a well-prepared and protective approach to the festive period.
