Canada issues security alert to citizens in Kenya over blackouts, mchele
By Nyaboga KiageCanadian authorities have issued a security alert to citizens traveling to Kenya, drawing attention to two alarming factors.
The widespread incidents of intermittent power blackouts, impacting major facilities such as JKIA and SGR, coupled with a rising trend of drink spiking in public entertainment venues, commonly referred to as “mchele,”.
In the alert, Canada warned its citizens against four areas in the country, including four estates within Nairobi County.
Also read: How barman saved three men from ‘mchele babes’ in the city
In Nairobi County, Canada asks its citizens to avoid Eastleigh, Kibera, Mathare, and Pangani. The other areas are Turkana, Marsabit, Tana River, Kilifi, Mandera, Wajir, Garissa, and Lamu counties.
In the warning, Canada also asked its citizens to be very vigilant and avoid carjacking, robberies, and kidnappings, especially in major cities like Nairobi and Mombasa.
“Be particularly alert during religious holidays, sporting events, and public celebrations. Terrorists have carried out attacks during these events,” the warning read in part.
In addition, the Canadians were also informed about the frequent national power blackouts that have been experienced in the country in the recent past.
According to the travel notice, the blackouts were also key to the number of criminal activities being experienced in the country.
“You are advised to plan accordingly and follow instruction from local authorities,” the security alert further read.
Also read: Inside the notorious invite-only Christmas parties in Nairobi hoods
Other vices that the foreigners were also warned about include fraud, road accidents, spiked food, drinks, amongst others.
Canada is the second country to issue such a warning in a span of one week. The United Kingdom (UK) recently issued a similar warning to its citizens.
The UK warned its citizens against travelling to six regions highlighted as the main targets of terror groups. It also warned them against visiting crowded areas like malls, which have been targeted before.
Some areas highlighted by the UK were the Kenya-Somali border, Eastern Garissa, Mandera, Tana River County, and Lamu counties, and the coast between Tana River and Galana River.
“No foreign travel can be guaranteed as safe. It would help if you took personal responsibility for your travel,” read part of the alert.