Ahead of the festive season, Kenya’s government has launched an extensive security operation to ensure the safety of its citizens. All police officers currently on leave have been directed to resume duty immediately, Interior Principal Secretary Dr. Raymond Omollo announced on Wednesday during a press briefing at Harambee House.
The decision, Omollo explained, aligns with the government’s efforts to preempt security threats, maintain public order, and ensure the smooth flow of activities during the holiday period, which is marked by heightened travel, tourism, and celebrations.
Multi-Agency Command Centres Activated
To bolster security coordination, all Regional and County Security and Intelligence Committees have been instructed to activate Multi-Agency Command Centres, operating 24/7. These centres will integrate personnel from the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF), National Police Service, Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), Kenya Forestry Service, and Kenya Coast Guard Service.
The National Multi-Agency Command Centre (NMACC), based at Lang’ata Barracks, will spearhead operations with support from Regional and County-level centres. A detailed festive season Operation Order has also been issued to guide security efforts across the country.
Enhanced Police Visibility
Kenyans will witness an increased police presence, including specialized units such as the all-female Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) team and undercover officers. Patrols and surveillance will be heightened in major towns, places of worship, and critical infrastructure areas.
Additionally, the National Police Service, in partnership with the National Transport Safety Authority (NTSA), will enforce traffic regulations to curb drunk driving, overloading, and speeding, which are common causes of accidents during the festive season.
Tourism and Border Security
To safeguard both local and international tourists, robust security measures have been put in place at coastal resorts, national parks, and inland attractions. Border control agencies will secure entry and exit points, with the Border Control Operations Coordination Committee (BCOCC) overseeing operations.
Omollo emphasized the importance of community cooperation, urging the public to report suspicious activities via police hotlines. “In the spirit of community policing, we call upon all citizens to remain vigilant and work closely with law enforcement,” he said.
Addressing Crime and Social Issues
The government has noted a seasonal uptick in crimes such as pickpocketing, mugging, home burglaries, and cybercrimes. Shopping malls, markets, and public transport termini have been identified as hotspots.
To counter these, security patrols will be intensified, and shopping mall proprietors, entertainment venue managers, and event organizers are advised to liaise with local security teams. Online shoppers have been warned to verify the authenticity of platforms to avoid fraud.
The government has also announced crackdowns on illicit brews and drug distribution. Vulnerable groups, including children, women, and persons with disabilities, will be prioritized for protection.
Disaster Preparedness and Terrorism Monitoring
Forecasts from the Kenya Meteorological Department indicate La Niña conditions, which could result in severe dryness in some regions. Disaster response teams have been placed on high alert to manage potential crises.
In the North Eastern region and the Boni enclave, counter-terrorism surveillance remains a priority, with ongoing measures to mitigate threats.
Traffic and Road Safety
To address the surge in travel, additional traffic officers have been deployed to regulate vehicle movement and ensure compliance with road safety rules. Owners of unlicensed public service vehicles have been cautioned against exploiting the high travel demand.
Public Awareness
Omollo warned citizens against participating in unlicensed lotteries and raffles and urged caution with personal belongings during shopping and travel. “We recognize the festive season as a time of increased movement and celebrations, but we must all take precautions to ensure our safety,” he said.
With these comprehensive measures, the government aims to provide a secure environment for all Kenyans during the festive period.
