Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki has issued a stern directive, stating that individuals found attempting to cross flooded rivers and water bodies will face arrest and charges of attempted suicide or murder.
Expressing deep concern over the increasing reports of risky behavior leading to loss of lives, Kindiki emphasized the government’s determination to mitigate further tragedies caused by the ongoing floods.
He highlighted the disregard for weather forecasts and voluntary evacuation advisories, which has exacerbated the situation.
To address these challenges, Kindiki instructed County Security and Intelligence Committees (CSICs) nationwide to deploy enforcement teams immediately.
These teams are tasked with preventing motorists and pedestrians from crossing dangerous waters, particularly at spots prone to stormwater flooding without bridges or where bridges have been breached.
Offenders will face legal repercussions commensurate with their actions.
Furthermore, CSICs have been mandated to conduct inspections of all public and private dams and water reservoirs within their jurisdictions within a 24-hour timeframe.
They are to recommend compulsory evacuation and temporary resettlement where necessary.
Kindiki also expressed concern over individuals exploiting the flood situation by offering unsafe transportation across hazardous waters.
He urged authorities to prevent such activities and to apprehend those capitalizing on the distress of others for personal gain.
The government, according to Kindiki, is diligently coordinating efforts across relevant agencies and partners to prevent further loss of lives and property amidst the escalating flood situation in the country.
This directive comes in the wake of a tragic incident in Mai Mahiu, where flash floods claimed the lives of 45 individuals in Kamuchiri Village.
Efforts to recover more bodies are ongoing, with several individuals still trapped in mud.
Additionally, a boat capsized at Kona Punda while heading to Mororo, resulting in 23 rescues and ongoing efforts to locate others.
The Kenya Red Cross reported retrieving two bodies from flood waters and noted that six individuals remain missing.
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