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The ban on night travel that has existed on the Lamu-Witu-Garsen road for over eight years has been lifted.
The national government has, however, lifted the ban partially where only cargo vehicle transporters will operate at any time, be it day or night.
Public Service Vehicle (PSV) providers shall however continue to adhere to the ban until further notice.
Speaking during a tour to Lamu over the weekend, Coast Regional Commissioner, John Elungata lauded the security agencies operating in Lamu for their efforts in ensuring peace and stability are restored in the region.
Lamu has for several years witnessed attacks and ambushes from Al-Shabaab militants, a situation that forced the government to impose the ban on night travel on the Lamu-Witu-Garsen route in July 2014.
Mr Elungata said despite the region witnessing improved security, only cargo vehicles ferrying farm produce, building material, shop items, and other goods are allowed to operate day and night but PSVs shall only operate during daytime under the escort of armed security agencies.
Mr Elungata however promised to engage in discussion with the county security committee before giving an informed stand on the PSV issue on whether they shall also be allowed to operate at night or not.
“From now henceforth, all vehicles transporting cargo, be it building materials, farm produce, business items among others can ply the Lamu-Witu-Garsen route any time they want. The ban on night travel for them is officially lifted right from now due to the fact that security in this place has greatly been improved,” said Mr Elungata.
He said, “But for Public Service Vehicles (PSVs), you shall continue to observe the night travel ban. As you’re aware, Al-Shabaab terrorists have always targeted passengers on our route. I will also engage the county security committee on whether PSVs can also be allowed to operate at night. I urge you to give me two weeks before giving direction on the same.”
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Content created and supplied by: MwagungaThoya (via Opera News )
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