The Inspector General of Police Japhet Koome has assured Kenyans that they will be safe during the Easter holiday as they gather in various parts of the country to celebrate.
In a statement issued on Thursday, IG Koome stated that he has increased surveillance and put in place appropriate security measures.
He also stated that officers will be adequately deployed to major highways, shopping malls, airports, railway and bus stations, places of worship, and recreational centers.
“As we enter the Easter Holiday, it is expected that there will be heavy traffic on our roads across the Country, and vacated homes,” said Koome in part of the statement.
“Through our collaboration with other national security agencies, we have enhanced patrols and surveillance on highways, commercial and residential areas, social places, and churches to ensure that calmness and tranquility is maintained and traffic accidents are reduced during this festive season.”
However, the chief of police was quick to point out that statistics show that a high number of road accidents are always recorded during the holidays, which has remained a major cause of injuries and fatalities.
As a result, he urged all motorists to exercise caution on the roads and obey all traffic rules.
“We appeal to all road users to comply with traffic rules by putting on safety belts, adhering to speed limits, avoiding overloading and reckless driving, driving while texting, and driving un-roadworthy vehicles,” he said.
He also advised motorists to be cautious as some roads may be flooded as a result of the ongoing rains.
IG Koome also warned reckless drivers who will be driving while under the influence of intoxicating substances that they will be apprehended.
“We wish to further caution the public against over indulgence during this season, especially in alcohol, and reiterate that those found driving while intoxicated (under the influence of alcohol and other psychotropic substances) will be arrested and dealt with according to the law.”
