Kenyans Seeking Court Access Undergo Intense Security Checks

By Catherine Muema On Jun 25, 2024

Security — Staff members and the public undergoing security checks at the Milimani Law Court entrance

By Shadrack Nyakoe

In response to the tragic incident at Makadara Law Courts earlier this month where multiple lives were lost, the public and court users are now subjected to enhanced security checks to ensure safety in judicial premises.

At Milimani Law Courts in Nairobi, visitors faced manual and scanner checks, along with physical frisks.

These heightened measures come after Director of Public Prosecutions, Renson Ingonga who is also the Deputy Chair of the National Council on the Administration of Justice (NCAJ) assured users of improved safety and security at all court stations.

During a memorial service for the late Principal Magistrate Monica Kivuti, who was shot and killed while on duty, Ingonga emphasized the need for a secure working environment for judicial officers and participants in the justice system.

The incident also resulted in the death of a police officer and left a court prosecutor traumatized.

Chief Justice Martha Koome has directed the Judiciary Police Unit in collaboration with the Inspector General of Police to enforce stringent search protocols at all court entry points.

Additional measures include mandatory name tags for judicial staff, restricted access to magistrates’ and judges’ chambers, and exclusive parking access for vehicles with Judiciary car stickers.