The government has ordered the closure of all public beaches along Kenya’s coast from 6pm throughout the Easter holiday period, in a sweeping security measure aimed at curbing gang activity and ensuring the safety of holidaymakers.
Speaking in Mombasa on Tuesday, Coast Regional Police Commander Ali Nuno unveiled the directive, noting that enhanced vigilance and coordinated enforcement will be deployed across the region during the busy season.
“This is a tourist destination centre, and I want to assure our people and the international community that the coastal region is safe and secure,” said Nuno. “We have an operational order in place, and teams will be strategically stationed to enforce these measures.”
Holiday Security Tightened
Thousands of domestic and international tourists are expected to visit Kenya’s coastline during the Easter period, prompting authorities to take preemptive action against potential threats, including the re-emergence of gang violence.
Among the key directives:
- Early beach closures at 6pm daily.
- Deployment of intelligence and security officers at key locations.
- Mandatory two-driver system for long-distance buses to combat fatigue-related accidents.
- Strict action against intoxicated drivers, who will face legal charges.
“We will not allow road carnage to be a nuisance during this period. We will take intoxicated drivers head on,” Nuno stated.
Parents of Gang Members to Be Held Accountable
Nuno also reiterated his hardline stance against youth gangs operating in the region, particularly the Panga Boys, a violent group linked to multiple attacks in Kwale County.
Referring to an earlier directive issued on March 25, he emphasized that parents of teenagers found engaging in criminal gang activities will be arrested and charged alongside their children.
“We want chiefs and assistant chiefs to submit names of not only the gang members but also their parents,” Nuno declared.
This follows a disturbing incident on the same day when the Panga Boys were captured in viral videos storming residential areas in Diani, armed with machetes and robbing locals under the guise of protest.
A Message of Assurance Amid Concern
Despite recent security scares, authorities insist the measures are meant to reassure rather than alarm. “We’re not just reacting — we’re planning. And these are part of our strategies to ensure seamless movement of travellers and protection for all,” Nuno said.
The crackdown comes as part of broader efforts to restore public confidence in coastal security ahead of peak tourism seasons.