Close to 2,000 more people were last night arrested in operations to implement the Covid-19 protocols and regulations in the country.

Police say of these, 1,298 were arrested for failing to observe the curfew rules, 652 for failing to wear masks while 65 bars were closed for failing to observe the closing time.

A total of 96 vehicles were detained together with six motorcycles.

This increases to more than 4,000 the number of those who have been arrested in the fresh operations since Friday. More than 200 bars and restaurants have been closed in the same period.

Inspector General of police Hilary Mutyambai said they will sustain the operations to ensure compliance and urged for support from the public.

President Kenyatta announced the creation of special squads to deal with those breaking the protocols as part of efforts to contain the spread of the pandemic.

More than 1,000 people have been killed by the disease while thousands are in hospitals. Wearing of face mask is now mandatory.