Police urge vigilance amid security threats in Kenya

The Kenyan police service on Tuesday urged members of the public to heighten vigilance ahead of the festive season when multiple security threats are expected in the east African nation.

Inspector General of National Police Service, Joseph Boinnet said in a statement that this year's Christmas and New Year festivities could present new security challenges to Kenyans hence the need for round-the-clock vigilance.

"The Christmas season is here with us and based on past experiences, it might present new security threats and therefore we urge the public to maintain caution," said Boinnet

His remarks came in the wake of an attack in a Christmas market in the German city of Berlin on Monday night where 12 people died after being run over by a truck.

German authorities said evidence pointed at involvement of radical groups in the latest attack.

The Kenyan security services on Tuesday intensified patrols in Nairobi and other major towns following the terrorist attack in Germany.

Boinnet said Kenya's vulnerability to a terrorist attack this festive season remained high while the police had put adequate deterrent measures in place.

"The terror threat remains a reality and we therefore call upon members of the public to be vigilant particularly in places with high concentration of people. These include beaches, restaurants, clubs and places of worship," Boinnet said.

He urged members of the public to report suspicious characters who might pose a threat to national security.

Meanwhile, the Kenyan police urged owners of public service vehicles, pedestrians and private motorists to observe traffic rules to avoid road accidents this festive season.

Boinnet said an inter agency team will be deployed to major highways to monitor vehicular traffic that is expected to surge during the Christmas holidays.

"We urge motorists to avoid reckless driving and overloading to avoid accidents on public roads. The police are under firm instruction to arrest traffic offenders and promptly charge them in court," said Boinnet.

source: Xinhua