By Shadrack Nyakoe
The Ministry of Interior and National Administration has launched a comprehensive security strategy to safeguard citizens and visitors during the Christmas and New Year festivities.
Officials announced the plan during a press briefing, emphasizing the importance of heightened vigilance during this period of increased social and economic activity.
The government assured that the overall security situation across the country remains stable but acknowledged the potential for increased criminal activities. Authorities identified key concerns such as petty crimes in crowded areas, home burglaries, reckless driving, counterfeit goods, and cybercrime.
To address these, security efforts will be intensified in public spaces like shopping malls, markets, entertainment venues, and places of worship. Critical infrastructure, tourist hotspots, airports, and border points will also receive heightened surveillance.
A robust traffic control initiative, implemented in partnership with the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA), will target reckless driving, overloaded vehicles, and unlicensed public transport operators.
More than 10,000 officers from the National Police Service, Kenya Prisons Service, Kenya Wildlife Service, and other agencies have been deployed nationwide.
Specialized units, including the all-female Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) team and undercover officers, will bolster patrols and surveillance.
The National Multi-Agency Command Centre (NMACC) in Lang’ata Barracks and its regional counterparts will coordinate the operations around the clock throughout the festive season.
Additional measures include surveillance in high-risk areas such as the North Eastern region and the Boni enclave, alongside intensified crackdowns on counterfeit goods, illicit brews, and drug trafficking.
Public awareness campaigns are encouraging homeowners to secure their properties while traveling, and disaster response teams have been activated to mitigate potential challenges stemming from forecasted La Niña conditions, especially in drought-prone areas.
Kenyans have been urged to cooperate with law enforcement by reporting suspicious activities through the police hotlines 999, 112, 911, and the #FichuakwaDCI line at 0800 722 203.
Shoppers and travelers were advised to exercise caution, while event organizers and venue operators were encouraged to collaborate with security agencies to manage large crowds effectively.
The government also warned against falling prey to unlicensed lotteries and raffles during the holiday season.
“The Government is committed to ensuring a safe and peaceful festive season for all,” concluded the statement, extending gratitude to the security personnel for their unwavering service.
As Kenyans prepare to celebrate, authorities reminded everyone that safety is a shared responsibility. Through vigilance and collaboration, the nation can ensure a joyous and secure festive season for all.