Police bolster security as Ramadan begins

At least 2,000 police officers will be deployed in Nairobi to enhance security during Ramadan celebrations that start Thursday.

"We have been receiving terror warnings and reports of possible attacks in Nairobi as the Muslims start Ramadan celebrations.

"Therefore, we will increase the number of security patrols in the city besides also doing things we do not normally do," Nairobi Regional Commissioner William Kang'ethe Thuku said Wednesday.

Mr Thuku explained why the city is vulnerable to attacks.

"Nairobi is a big city with a huge population, which makes it most of the time a target for the terrorists. We will be conducting raids around the city in areas like Ngara and Eastleigh to contain the situation," he said.

STRATEGIES
The security boss said that police will enhance surveillance in different parts of the county such as mounting road blocks to inspect public service vehicles, taxis and other transport systems, and visit hotels to assess the list of visitors.

Through these, he said, security will be maintained.

"We will start inspecting the PSVs entering and leaving Nairobi and if you do not have immigration documents you will be arrested.

"We will also be checking the list of visitors in various hotels across the city. We do not want to take any risks."

PARTNERS

Mr Thuku also urged residents to be vigilant and report suspicious people and activities to the authorities through police website mulikauhalifu.com or by sending a message to toll number 22068.

Further, he said that the region's security committee made up of himself, regional police commander Joseph ole Tito, regional administration police commander John Murage and county commissioner Amos Mariba will hold meetings with Matatu Owners Association, security firms and taxi operators to help in monitoring the city.