Kenya Declares Curfew In Parts Of North Rift Affected By Insecurity
By Samuel Ouma
The Kenyan government has imposed a month-long curfew in sections of the North Rift region following heightened incidences of insecurity in the area.
The dusk-to-dawn curfew takes effect Tuesday, February 14, in West Pokot, Elgeyo Marakwet, Laikipia, Baringo, Samburu, and Turkana counties. The areas have witnessed a rise in banditry and cattle rustling which has claimed several lives, including security officers.
“Under this Order, there shall be no public gatherings, processions or movement, either alone or as a group during the period of the curfew except as has been permitted in writing by the Inspector General of the National Police Service,” read a gazette notice signed by Interior Cabinet Secretary Prof. Kithure Kindiki.
The decision comes after President William Ruto proclaimed the launch of a massive campaign to eradicate illegal weaponry in the North Rift Valley.
On Monday, February 13, Ruto stated that the security operation will be carried out by a multi-agency security force comprised of officers from the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF).
He had directed Defense Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale and his Interior counterpart Kithure Kindiki to develop a coordinated strategy.
President Ruto further declared a three-day amnesty period for bandits and anyone in possession of illicit firearms to surrender their weapons or face the full power of the law.
