Coast security beefed up as hundreds flock region for festive season

The government has beefed up security at the Coast as hundreds of visitors flocked the region for the festive season.

 

Churches that traditionally hold night vigil on the eve of Christmas Day were yesterday holding the masses at 6pm in full conformity of Covid -19 regulations and the ongoing 10.00 pm -5.00 am curfew. 

 

Coast Regional Commissioner (RC) John Elungata said all security arrangements have been put in place ahead of the Christmas and New Year holidays to ensure residents and visitors enjoy a peaceful and safe holiday season.

 

 “We have deployed adequate security personnel and enhanced patrols at the beaches and other popular joints,” said Elungata in Mombasa.

 

Elungata, who was accompanied by Coast Regional Police Commander Gabriel Musau, said all security personnel, including village elders, have been put on high alert to ensure locals and international visitors celebrate the holidays in a peaceful environment.

He also asked the public to report or volunteer information to the police on any suspected person or illegal activities.

Separately, Skal Club, world's largest tourism organisation that brings together all proffesionals in the hospitality sector through its Skal Mombasa Club gifted 30 famillies  from a slum in Maweni, Nyali constituency, with a full day meal that comprised maize flour, wheat flour, cooking oil, energy biscuits and sanitary kit at the Ngarisha Youth Centre.

 

Rosebell Kaguta, a trustee of Ngarisha Youth Centre, thanked Skal Club for the gesture, terming it a timely Christmas gift for the hard pressed members of the community..

 

At the same time, Elungata urged holidaymakers to strictly observe Covid-19 protocols and underscored the importance of social distancing, regular washing of hands with soap or sanitizer and wearing of masks in public places.

 

He urged locals and visitors to avoid overcrowding in places such as beaches, entertainment joints and public transport vehicles.

 

“Those found violating the Ministry of Health protocols aimed at combating the spread of coronavirus will be arrested and taken to court," added the regional commissioner.

On his part, Musau said 500 prison wardens have been deployed to the region to work with other security personnel during the festive season.

 

''We welcome all Kenyans and visitors to the Coast and we assure them of their safety during and after the holiday season,'' Musau said.

 

Musau urged bar owners and other entertainment joints to ensure total adherence of Covid-19 protocols and close their establishments by 9pm in line with curfew hours.

 

He added that police will work closely with the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) in the enforcement of traffic regulations, saying public service vehicles and other motorists should avoid reckless driving during the festive period.