Police Inspector General David Kimaiyo on Wednesday extended the Lamu County dusk to dawn curfew from August 21 to September 21.
Kimaiyo also observed that since the curfew was imposed in July, the county has experienced fewer incidences of insecurity adding that life as well as economic and social activities were gradually returning to normal.
"There is still need to carry out more security operations so as to make the areas completely secure and safe for the citizens" Kimaiyo said.
However, Lamu residents and business owners have complained that the curfew is disrupting their livelihoods.
The Lamu Tourism Association said that if not lifted the curfew will strangle tourism in Lamu county. The Association’s deputy chair Ghalib Alwy said on July 21 that more than 30 hotels risked closure if the curfew is not lifted.
“More than 3,000 people employed in various businesses also risk unemployment. We can not allow any further damage to an already injured economy,” Alwy said.
Lamu tycoon and businessman Faridi Ali said he will not observe the curfew as it would interfere with his business.
Honey harvesters from Boni community in Lamu East have also criticised the curfew saying it inhibits their main source of livelihood. Elder Ali Abdi accused the ongoing security operation in the county of hindering them from harvesting honey and said that the community no longer has adequate food.
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