MOMBASA, Kenya — Authorities in Kenya’s coastal region have announced a strict 6:00 pm curfew on public beaches, moving to enhance safety as thousands of domestic and international tourists arrive for the December holidays.
The directive, which prohibits access to the shoreline after sunset, is being enforced through a collaboration between county governments, security agencies, and local beach management units.
Officials state the restriction is necessary to facilitate effective police patrols and minimize the risks associated with strong evening tides and criminal activity.
Mombasa County Commissioner Mohamed Noor confirmed that security protocols have been escalated across the city to handle the influx of visitors.
Specialized teams, including officers from the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), have been deployed to bolster the Tourism Police and local administration in securing recreational zones.
“At 6:00 pm, swimmers will be required to leave the beach. This is meant to prevent drownings and injuries in the ocean,” Mohamed stated.
In addition to beach safety, the Commissioner directed hotels and private establishments to ensure lifeguards are stationed at swimming pools to prevent accidents.
Mohamed also issued a strong warning regarding the safety of minors during the long school break.
He urged parents to monitor their children closely to prevent them from falling victim to peer pressure or online influence, which he noted often leads to arrests and family distress.
Addressing holiday fraud, the Commissioner warned travelers to be vigilant against online accommodation scams, where fraudsters list non-existent apartments. He confirmed that the Directorate of Criminal Investigations is actively pursuing these cases.
On general law enforcement, Mohamed revealed that police had arrested 36 suspects in Kisauni Sub-county following a crackdown on organized criminal gangs, including those armed with machetes.
“We are tightening security to ensure safety for everyone in Mombasa, not only visitors but also residents,” he said.
A similar order has been issued in neighboring Kilifi County, where the evening ban will remain in force until the end of the year.
Kilifi County Commissioner David Wanyonyi explained that the decision was driven by both security concerns and the natural dangers of the ocean at night.
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“From now until the end of the festive season, no one will be allowed on the beaches after 6:00 pm. Tidal waves become stronger and more unpredictable at night,” Wanyonyi said.
The Commissioner noted that closing the beaches early would also deny criminals the cover of darkness and large crowds.
Simultaneously, Wanyonyi ordered chiefs and their assistants to intensify raids on narcotic drugs and illicit alcohol dens, warning that any administrator found compromising on these directives would face disciplinary action.
He also appealed to leaders at both the national and county levels to address the rising cases of teenage pregnancy, expressing concern over reports of students sitting for national exams in maternity wards. He called on parents to take greater responsibility in guiding the youth.
“There is no reward for early pregnancies. Our children, especially girls, must be protected and supported to complete their education and secure a better future,” he said.
Across the coastal region, authorities have appealed to both residents and visitors to fully comply with the new directives. Officials stressed that the curfew and heightened security measures are temporary interventions designed solely to ensure a safe, peaceful, and incident-free festive season for all.
