Government Rolls Out Comprehensive Multi-Agency Security Management Plan Ahead of December Festivities

NAIROBI, Kenya – As the festive season approaches, marked by vibrant celebrations, increased travel, and bustling economic activities, the government has unveiled a Multi-Agency Security Management Plan to ensure the safety and well-being of citizens and visitors.

This initiative, announced by Interior PS, Dr. Raymond Omollo, comes amid heightened vigilance against seasonal crime and other security concerns.

The December period traditionally sees a spike in activities such as shopping, religious gatherings, and tourism.

While the overall security situation remains calm, authorities are taking proactive measures to address potential threats, citing past trends of increased petty crimes, traffic violations, and other illegal activities during the holidays.

Authorities have highlighted several key areas of concern requiring vigilance.

Among these are petty crimes like pickpocketing and muggings in crowded public spaces, burglaries targeting unattended homes, and car break-ins.

Traffic violations, including drunk driving and overloading, often result in tragic road accidents, exacerbated by the deployment of unlicensed vehicles to meet heightened travel demands.

Additionally, the season sees a rise in cybercrime and counterfeit goods as online shoppers are targeted with fake promotions and substandard products flood the market.

Other issues include noise disturbances, unauthorized gatherings, drug distribution, and exploitation of vulnerable groups, including children.

Security in regions such as North Eastern Kenya and the Boni enclave also remains a priority, given ongoing concerns about terrorism.

To counter these risks, the government has activated a comprehensive security framework.

This plan includes increased deployment of officers across critical areas, such as airports, hotels, shopping malls, and places of worship.

A total of 10,317 officers from various agencies, including the National Police Service, Kenya Wildlife Service, and Kenya Prisons Service, are being deployed nationwide.

These teams will be complemented by specialized units, such as the all-female SWAT team and undercover officers.

Enhanced traffic control measures are also in place to curb road violations, with additional traffic officers deployed to ensure compliance with safety regulations.

The National Transport Safety Authority (NTSA) is collaborating with law enforcement to monitor private and commercial vehicles rigorously.

The security plan is anchored on a network of Multi-Agency Command Centers operating at national, regional, and county levels.

These centers will be manned around the clock by personnel from the Kenya Defence Forces, National Police Service, and other key agencies.

Police officers currently on leave have been directed to resume duty to support these efforts.

At border points, security agencies will ensure smooth passenger flow while maintaining strict vigilance against illegal activities.

Tourism hotspots, including coastal resorts and national parks, will receive special attention to ensure the safety of local and international visitors.

The government has called on citizens to play an active role in ensuring a peaceful festive season.

Residents are urged to report suspicious activities through police hotlines and to remain cautious about personal safety, particularly in crowded areas.

Event organizers and business proprietors are advised to liaise with local security teams to augment private security measures.

Online shoppers are warned to verify the authenticity of platforms before making purchases, and the public is cautioned against participating in unlicensed lotteries or raffles that are common during the holidays.

The comprehensive multi-agency plan underscores a collective effort involving law enforcement, private sector stakeholders, and the public.

“This season should be a time of joy and unity. Let us work together to make it safe for all, especially the most vulnerable among us,” the statement concluded, thanking security personnel for their tireless efforts.