Round-the-clock emergency response centres have been activated across several counties in the Nyanza region, as security agencies roll out comprehensive measures to safeguard residents during the Christmas and New Year celebrations.
Nyanza Regional Commissioner (RC), Flora Mworoa, said the centres, staffed round the clock, will respond to reports of crime, accidents, or any suspicious activity through dedicated hotlines.
A full operation order covering the region, she said, was already in effect, with police officers deployed to strategic posts in towns, rural areas, highways, border points, and vulnerable locations.
She added that officers who were on leave have been recalled to ensure maximum coverage as the festive season kicks off.
Addressing the media in her office in Kisumu after chairing the Regional Security Committee meeting, Mworoa said traffic enforcement has been stepped-up in partnership with the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) to curb drunk driving and improve road safety.
Alcoblow devices, she said, will be deployed on major highways to arrest and charge drivers under the influence.
She added that authorities also plan to tackle chronic traffic misbehaviour, particularly overlapping, which often causes gridlocks at key points such as Ahero, where holiday traffic from Nairobi and western counties is heaviest.
Border control agencies, she said, have strengthened surveillance at entry and exit points to prevent infiltration by criminals or the movement of wanted persons, while anti-terror units remain on high alert.
“We have put mechanisms in place to ensure residents enjoy the holidays without interruption. Security starts with all of us, and we urge everyone to cooperate with security agencies,” the RC said.
Security teams, she said, were also working to protect local and international tourists visiting lakes, parks, beaches, and other tourist attractions, in partnership with the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS).
She said patrols on waterways, including Lake Victoria, have been intensified to safeguard visitors.
The RC said additional officers have been deployed to areas with a history of inter-communal conflict, particularly in Migori, where tensions could flare during the festive season.
Nationwide crackdowns on illicit alcohol and drugs, she added, have also been intensified to tackle rising cases of gender-based violence (GBV) linked to substance abuse.
She disclosed that the Ministry of Defence will provide logistical support where needed, particularly in difficult terrains or areas requiring specialised mobility.
On street lighting concerns in Kisumu, the RC said the County government had committed to restoring lights along major roads, including Busia and Kakamega highways.
Meanwhile, highway patrols, she said, will continue to prevent robberies, carjackings, and other crimes along poorly lit routes.
“Some may assume that security officers are on holiday during this period. I want to assure residents that we are fully on alert and will remain vigilant so that everyone can celebrate safely,” the RC said.
by Chris Mahandara
