Over 100 residents in Mombasa County have been apprehended by authorities for violating the no-travel directive imposed on COVID-19 affected counties. This measure was part of the government's efforts to curb the spread of the virus, which has significantly impacted the region. The lockdown, which began a week ago, restricts movement in and out of the counties identified as hotspots, including Mombasa, Kwale, Kilifi, and Nairobi.
Mombasa County Commissioner Gilbert Kitiyo addressed the media in Mombasa on Monday, confirming the arrests. He stated that the individuals were caught traveling from Mombasa to the neighboring counties of Kilifi and Kwale, in direct contravention of the lockdown orders. Kitiyo emphasized that the offenders would face legal consequences, with some expected to be arraigned in court depending on the severity of their violations. "Not all the offenders will be taken to court. The officers manning those areas will consider the weight of the offence before they are taken to court," Kitiyo explained.
The county commissioner urged residents to comply with the travel restrictions, highlighting the importance of adhering to the directive for public safety. He acknowledged the challenges faced by those caught up in the lockdown, noting that they have reported experiencing stigmatization. "People must abide by this law. This is for their own benefit," Kitiyo reiterated, stressing the necessity of the measures to protect public health.
Kitiyo also mentioned that motorcyclists and tuk-tuk operators found flouting the rules on highways are being redirected back to their respective counties. This enforcement is part of a broader strategy to ensure compliance with the travel restrictions and minimize the risk of spreading the virus across county lines.
The travel ban was announced by President Uhuru Kenyatta during a state of the nation address on April 6, as part of a series of measures to contain the spread of COVID-19. The directive officially took effect on Wednesday, April 8, starting at 7 pm. Health Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe has been at the forefront of implementing these health directives, urging Kenyans to cooperate with the guidelines to safeguard the nation's health. The government's decisive actions underscore the seriousness of the pandemic and the collective effort required to overcome it.
