Police Announce Measures To Counter Burglaries During Easter Holidays

The National Police Service (NPS) has announced measures to combat criminal activities that include burglaries and petty offences ahead of the Easter holidays this weekend. 

In a statement, NPS Spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga on Wednesday, April 16 took note of the Easter season, which is traditionally marked by increased travel, social gatherings, and heightened tourism, all of which present unique security and safety challenges.

He added that the challenges are further exacerbated by the heavy rainfall affecting most parts of the country, which is creating hazardous conditions such as poor visibility and flooded roads. Such conditions are likely to lead to a rise in road traffic accidents.

Beyond road safety, NPS recognised its duty to uphold law and order and acknowledged that crime rates, particularly petty offences, burglaries, and traffic violations, often increase over the long Easter weekend.

To combat this, Nyaga announced that more police officers will be deployed to areas of huge public interest that include markets, shopping malls and termini of major forms of transport, including air.

"To safeguard citizens, residents, and visitors, the National Police Service has put in place a comprehensive security strategy, including increased police presence, intensified patrols, and heightened surveillance in shopping malls, places of worship, markets, termini and critical infrastructure," the statement read in part.

"These measures are complemented by specialised units and undercover officers in our proactive efforts to prevent criminal activities or incidents that may disrupt celebrations."

Criminal activity tends to surge during holiday periods, with crimes ranging from muggings, pickpocketing, robbery with violence, house break-ins, among others, reported.

Furthermore, the National Police Service, in collaboration with the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA), has implemented an extensive operation plan to conduct thorough enforcement checks and ensure road safety compliance on all roads.

"We urge all drivers, pedestrians, cyclists, boda boda riders, and passengers to comply with traffic rules and regulations," added the statement.

Additionally, NPS appealed to owners of public service vehicles (PSVs) and boda boda associations to collaborate with police officers to improve discipline among drivers and conductors, enhance customer service, and implement safety measures to protect passengers.

"NPS sincerely thanks members of the public and the media for their invaluable support and urge them to continue partnering with the police to ensure that peace, safety, and security is maintained in the spirit of Community Policing," added NPS.

As it concluded its statement, the police urged members of the public to remain vigilant while travelling and celebrating and to report any suspicious activities to the nearest police station.

They can also report to a law enforcement officer, or via the toll-free numbers: 999, 911, 112, or #FichuakwaDCI (0800 722 203).