Homa Bay County authorities have intensified security measures ahead of the festive season, aiming to safeguard residents while curbing gangsterism and road accidents.
The heightened security plan was formulated during a joint meeting that brought together the county security team from all eight sub-counties.
Speaking at Kabunde Social Hall, Homa Bay County Commissioner Ronald Mwiwawi emphasised that the deliberations focused on reviewing past security challenges and implementing strategies to ensure residents celebrate the holidays safely.
“Our focus is to make sure that as residents celebrate Christmas and usher in the New Year, they do so in a safe and secure environment,” Mwiwawi said.
The county commissioner assured residents of the government’s commitment to their safety, noting that security officers will remain on duty throughout the festive period.
Increased patrols and visible security presence will be prioritised in major towns, including Oyugis, Kendu Bay, Homa Bay, Rodi, and surrounding market centres.
“As security teams, we are not going home. We will be around to ensure our people celebrate safely and close the year joyfully,” Mwiwawi added.
The commissioner highlighted that security is a shared responsibility, urging the public to cooperate with law enforcement and report any suspicious activities.
“Security is not an exclusive phenomenon but an inclusive one. We need total cooperation from the people of Homa Bay to deliver the best service,” he noted.
Addressing the spike in road accidents common during festive seasons, Mwiwawi revealed that authorities have begun implementing preventive measures, including the installation of roadblocks to check for drunk driving, overloading, and the roadworthiness of vehicles.
“During the festive season, some operators bring back unroadworthy vehicles to cash in on increased travel. We will check vehicle conditions to ensure passenger safety,” he said.
The CC also expressed concern over rising gangsterism, describing it as a serious threat to public safety and social cohesion.
“This culture of goonism is a big threat to the safety and social fabric of our people,” he said.
“We appeal to political leaders to denounce it. Having supporters is normal, but when they carry crude weapons like machetes and pangas, it becomes criminal.”
He warned that anyone found carrying crude weapons will be treated as a criminal, regardless of political affiliation.
“When we take action, it is not out of ill motive but to safeguard the rights and safety of everyone,” he explained.
Mwiwawi further stressed that maintaining peace is crucial for protecting ongoing and future development initiatives in the county.
“We must work together to safeguard the gains already made and attract more investment for the benefit of our people,” he said.
The county security team confirmed that patrols and enforcement operations will continue throughout the festive period and into the New Year to ensure public safety.
By Sitna Omar
