Interior CS Kithure Kindiki has issued a stern warning, stating that Kenyans attempting to cross flooded bridges will face charges of attempted suicide.
In a directive issued to County Security and Intelligence Committees on Monday, Kindiki urged for the deployment of enforcement teams to flood-prone areas.
The CS emphasized that these deployed officers must take action to prevent both motorists and pedestrians from risking dangerous crossings in flooded areas.
Furthermore, Kindiki emphasized that those who defy the directive should be arrested and charged with attempted suicide or attempted murder.
"Deploy enforcement teams at urban and rural road spots prone to stormwater flooding and without bridges or where the water has breached the bridge to prevent motorists or pedestrians from dangerous crossovers and to arrest and prosecute offenders for attempted suicide and/or attempted murder as the facts of the case may be," Kindiki stated.
Additionally, Kindiki ordered the arrest of individuals involved in transporting passengers across flooded rivers or stormwater using unsafe canoes or boats, accusing them of exploiting vulnerable individuals for profit.
"Arrest inexperienced and unscrupulous persons taking advantage of the prevailing situation to cash in on persons in distress," he added.
Expressing deep concern over the loss of life and destruction caused by the floods, Kindiki assured that the government is coordinating efforts across relevant agencies to prevent further casualties and provide support to affected individuals.
As of now, Kenya has recorded 103 deaths due to flooding, though the actual number could be higher, with the Mai Mahiu tragedy alone confirming at least 42 fatalities.
Last week, the government established a multi-agency emergency response team to coordinate rescue and relief efforts for affected Kenyans amidst the ongoing floods.
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