Saturday, March 12, 2016
By KALUME KAZUNGU
More than 700 security officers have been deployed in various parts of Lamu County to strengthen security in the region.
The new County Commissioner Joseph Kanyiri said the move has been taken to ensure security of citizens living in the area is guaranteed.
Speaking during a function where he was introduced to the public at the Lamu Fort Hall by his predecessor Fredrick Ndambuki, Mr Kanyiri said many of the officers have already reported to their new places of work while others were still expected to Lamu.
The security personnel include regular police, General Service Unit (GSU)and the Rapid Deployment Unit (RDU).
Others are from the Anti-Terror Police Unit (ATPU) and Kenya Defence Forces soldiers.
He said most of the officers have already been deployed in all corners of Lamu to ensure safety of residents and visitors who will be coming for the Easter holidays in Lamu.
The Nation established that most of the security officers were posted in areas that were adversely affected by threats and attacks from Al-Shabaab militants.
The areas include Basuba, Milimani, Mangai, Mararani, Kiangwe, Kiunga and Ishakani in Lamu East while others are Pandanguo, Witu, Kibaoni, Mpeketoni and Kaisari in Lamu West.
Mr Kanyiri urged the public to volunteer information to the police that would assist in arresting criminals in the region.
“We are very alert when comes to issues of national security. I promise to ensure Lamu remains peaceful. We have ensured every place is secured. We have deployed more than 700 security officers to enhanced security patrols in the entire county. We have officers on roads, water, air, and all public places. There is no cause for alarm,” said Mr Kanyiri.
He asked county leaders to be on the forefront in ensuring Lamu is crime-free.
He also asked chiefs and locals to embrace the Nyumba Kumi community policing initiative, adding that apart from fighting insecurity, the policy can also be used to fight drugs.
“We are banking on Nyumba Kumi policy so that we can fight crimes and especially insecurity and drugs,” added Mr Kanyiri.
Commenting on the matter, Lamu Governor Issa Timamy assured of the county government’s commitment to improving security in the county.
He promised to cooperate and support the security apparatus to ensure a secure and safe environment for residents and visitors to the county.