A multi-sectoral committee has been established to enhance security in the lakeside city of Kisumu ahead of the Christmas festivities.
Kisumu City Manager Abala Wanga stated that a committee comprising the National Police Service, County Government, and non-state actors has implemented strict measures to curb crime.
This follows a spate of attacks by criminal gangs who waylay and attack unsuspecting residents using crude weapons.
Wanga said the measures have started yielding fruits, with the network of criminals who have been terrorizing residents disrupted.
“A number of suspects have been arrested while others have been shot by the police. Efforts to zero in on key suspects is also ongoing,” he said.
The city manager stated that residential areas have been impacted by recent attacks, and security agencies have intensified patrols to ensure safety during the festive season.
He added that barriers have been erected in various residential areas which have borne the brunt of the recent attacks adding that patrols by security agencies have been intensified to ensure that the city remains safe during the festive season.
As the city prepares to host various artistes among them Congolese Rhumba maestro Koffi Olondide, Zaiko Langa Langa’s Nyoka Longo, Prince Indah among others, the committee, he said, was working round the clock to ensure that security is maintained.
Koffi Olomide who will headline the Mzuqa Festival to be held on December 14th at Jomo Kenyatta International Stadium in Mamboleo has already attracted a number of local and international visitors to the city and every measure shall be taken to guarantee their security.
The city management has devised a comprehensive strategy to guarantee the safety of all fans who have purchased tickets for the event.
“We have developed an elaborate security plan to make sure that the show runs smoothly. We want to ensure that not even a single mobile phone is stolen during the festival,” he said.
The venue will only be accessible by motor vehicles that undergo thorough screening to prevent the entry of criminal elements.
Moreover, a parking for 2, 000 vehicles has been created, while those using boda boda’s and other means will alight at Mamboleo market and access the venue on foot after going through the necessary checks.
“I want to assure you that all safety measures have been put in place for this show. Therefore, I want to encourage those who have not secured their tickets to do so before they are sold out,” Wanga said.
By Chris Mahandara
