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| Security tightened at JKIA ahead of the Gen Z protests |
A contingent of security officers from various units has been mobilized to ensure the safety of travelers and the normal operations at JKIA in response to anticipated protests at the facility. A group of protesters is planning to occupy the airport.
A spot check revealed a heavy presence of officers, especially from the General Service Unit (GSU) and anti-riot units from the administration police service.
Sources within the security apparatus indicate that the deployment followed a day-long meeting on Monday between top security officials and the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) at the facility.
At the primary screening yard, the main entry point to the airport, hundreds of armed security officers were on guard from as early as 6 am.
This area is usually manned by regular officers from the JKIA police station, assisted by GSU officers from the nearby Embakasi Training School.
Despite the heightened security, services inside the facility remained uninterrupted, with thorough security checks conducted on those entering.
Some companies at the airport advised their workers to remain at home as a precautionary measure.
Acting Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja reminded protesters on Monday that breaching security and entering protected areas is an offense punishable by law.
“In light of the demonstrations planned for July 23, 2024, it is critical to firmly remind the public of the legal boundaries that govern access to protected areas,” Kanja said in a statement on Tuesday evening.
He explained that the Protected Areas Act Cap 204 Laws of Kenya prohibits unauthorized entry into areas declared as protected.
“Protected Areas Order as clarified under its Legal Notice No. 9 of 2011, Second Schedule, includes LPG Plant, the Bitumen Plant, and Petroleum depots situated at the Embakasi Aviation Depot (JKIA),” he said.
Kanja further stated that Section 58 of the Kenya Civil Aviation Act No. 21 of 2013 on trespassing specifies that any person who trespasses on land forming part of a government airfield or a licensed airfield commits an offense punishable by law.
“We urge all individuals participating in demonstrations to respect these legal provisions and refrain from attempting to enter or interfere with protected areas.
The National Police Service is resolute in its commitment to uphold and enforce these laws,” Kanja warned.
BY FELIX KIPKEMOI