Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki issued a stern directive on Monday, April 29, announcing that Kenyans attempting to cross flooded rivers would face arrest and charges of attempted suicide. The directive instructed County Security and Intelligence Committees (CSICs) nationwide to enforce this measure immediately.

"All CSICs are directed to promptly deploy enforcement teams at urban and rural road spots susceptible to stormwater flooding, especially those lacking bridges or where water has breached existing infrastructure. Offenders will be arrested and prosecuted for attempted suicide and/or attempted murder, depending on the circumstances," the statement outlined.

Furthermore, CSICs were tasked with preventing the unsafe transportation of passengers across flooded rivers using makeshift canoes or boats, and to apprehend individuals exploiting the situation for personal gain.

In a bid to address the widespread flooding, all CSICs were mandated to conduct inspections of public and private dams and water reservoirs within their jurisdictions within 24 hours, effective from 1400hrs on Monday, April 29. Following these inspections, recommendations for compulsory evacuation and temporary resettlement were to be made.

Kindiki emphasized that these measures aimed to curb further loss of lives and property caused by the flooding across the nation. The government pledged to collaborate with relevant agencies and partners to provide support to those affected by the floods.

With the death toll from floods exceeding 100, CS Kindiki attributed much of the tragedy to the recklessness of motorists and pedestrians, citing reports of continued risky behavior despite weather advisories.

"There's a concerning trend of Kenyans disregarding voluntary evacuation advisories," Kindiki remarked, noting instances where impassable roads were exploited for makeshift canoe operations. He condemned such actions, highlighting the danger posed to lives and the exploitation of vulnerable individuals in distress.