Kenyans Warned of Sh20,000 Fine for Not Wearing Facemask in Public

Inspector-General of Police Hillary Mutyambai has warned Kenyans that they will pay a fine of Sh20,000 if they are found without a facemask in public.

Mutyambai said police officers across the country are under instructions to arrest anyone found not wearing a facemask in public places and those flouting other Covid-19 guidelines.

“Being in public without a mask attracts a fine of Ksh.20,000. However, all officers are to enforce this within the law and no one is allowed to use excessive force while implementing this directive. In case of any proof, share with my office, IAU [Internal Affairs Unit] or IPOA [Independent Policing Oversight Authority] for action,” Mutyambai said during his weekly #EngageTheIG tweet chat.

He added: “All police officers should identify themselves, even then the police have been authorized to enforce strict adherence to the @MOH_Kenya Covid-19 guidelines including wearing masks in public places. Finally, do not offer or give any bribes to anyone.” 

Mutyambai’s warning comes at a time when the country is experiencing a second wave of coronavirus.

“We continue to urge the public to take personal responsibility as Covid-19 numbers continue to rise, the Police cannot arrest everyone because then we will simply transfer the burden of social distancing to the cells. It boils down to personal responsibility,” added Mutyambai.

On Sunday, President Kenyatta said the government may be forced to impose a fresh lockdown to combat the spread of the disease.