10 areas in Nairobi, where security officials suspect political violence is likely to occur during and after the elections, have been revealed by Nairobi Police Commander Japheth Koome.
According to local media, the hotspots include Ziwani, Landhies Road, Globe, Dandora, Makadara, Mowlem Savanah, Mukuru, Sinai, Umoja and all slums.
“The list is long, but generally all informal settlements are on our watch list. These areas have big populations and we shall deploy extra … officers. The threat level in these areas is higher,” said Mr Koome in a statement.
However, he reassured residents that security agencies will make sure safety prevails in those areas.
“Where force is required, we shall be governed by the law. The use of force will depend on circumstances,” said the police chief.
He spoke at Utalii Hotel during a meeting of division commanders.
The senior officers are meeting to plan how to maintain law and order during the campaign period.
“These officers have made their presentations and I am convinced they are all committed,” Mr Koome added.
The statement came among the news that teargas was among the security gear earmarked for distribution to counties to deal with possible election violence.
Officials today said that lorryloads of teargas canisters had been dispatched to regions that the authorities fear could degenerate into violence.
Some 20 counties have been identified as possible election violence hotspots. Lorries carrying ammunition arrived in Mombasa at the weekend for onward distribution.
