NAIROBI, Kenya, Jul 19- The rising cases of insecurity in the country has become a major concern for Kenyans and the pressure is being piled up on one man to guarantee their safety- the Inspector General of Police Hillary Mutyambai.
Latest police statistics show at least two people are being abducted on a weekly basis, with some ending up being killed, even when ransom has been paid- like in the case of a university student from Githurai.
What has caught the attention of the international bodies under the United Nations and even senior local politicians, is the killing of children, girls and women.
Two serial killers who confessed to killing more than 15 children after defiling them, are in police custody.
On Monday, Inspector General of Police said measures were being put in place to curb the worrying trend, which former Prime Minister Raila Odinga said “is unacceptable.”
“Security has been heightened across the country…” the much sought-after assurance was made by the police boss, without divulging much details.
As police execute their mandate, he said parents too, have a task to play.
“Parents are cautioned to take care of their children and also encouraged to educate their children on basic security measures,” the police boss said.
He made the sentiments during his weekly engagements under #EngageTheIG, on Twitter.
The IG further urged Kenyans not to hesitate to report such characters and other suspicious activities to police through their toll-free numbers, 112, 9111, or 999.
-Safety Tips For Children-
Here are a few approved tips for parents;
Many parents are concerned about child abduction by strangers. Although this is a legitimate concern, keep in mind that stranger abduction is rare. Family members or acquaintances are responsible for most child abductions.
Train your child to be aware of his or her surroundings, how to identify a threat, and how to react.
When children reach age 3, they can begin to understand some of these basic concepts.
Security experts recommend teaching your child the following tips to help prevent abduction;
They should stay away from strangers. Explain what makes a person a stranger. Note that even someone with a familiar face is a stranger if you do not know him or her well.
As such, tell them to;
Stay away from anyone who is following you on foot or in a car. Don’t get close to them or feel as though you must answer any questions, they ask you.
Run and scream if someone tries to force you to go somewhere with them or tries to push you into a car.
Memorize a secret code word. Tell your child not to go with anyone under any circumstances unless that person also knows this code word.
Adults shouldn’t ask children for help. For example, a child shouldn’t trust grown-ups who ask kids for directions or for help finding a puppy or kitten. A child who is approached in this way should tell the person, “Wait here and I’ll check with my mom or dad,” and then find his or her parents right away.
Ask for help when you are lost. If you get lost in a public place, immediately ask someone who works there for help.
Always ask for permission before going anywhere with anybody. Ask a parent or the grown-up in charge before leaving the yard or play area, or before going into someone’s home. Do not accept any unplanned offers for a ride—from someone known or unknown.
Always tell a parent where you are going, how you will get there, who is going with you, and when you will be back. Be home at the agreed-upon time or else find a way to contact home directly.
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