Police have warned Kenyans especially revellers to be aware of their surroundings during the festive season.
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations said that revellers should avoid falling prey to drugging by way of drink spiking.
In a statement, police warned that cases of drugging by way of spiking drinks have been on the rise.
“As the festive season gains traction, members of the public, especially those flocking various drinking joints are encouraged to remain alert as not every reveller is up to something good,” DCI said.
“Cases of drugging by way of spiking frothy waters are on the rise where a stupefied holidaymaker lost valuables to a mchele babe at a hotel.”
Police said that in this case, it happened that after a night of merry-making, the reveller who was on a job-related assignment decided to visit a popular joint.
According to DCI, the reveller then left for his hotel room in the company of a woman he had reportedly met at the joint.
DCI stated that the lady was captured leaving the hotel room some minutes before noon.
According to DCI, she allegedly stole two mobile phones, a watch and ATM cards from the victim.
“The following day, the suspect swept clean the bank accounts of the victim, before switching off his phones,” DCI stated.
DCI has since launched a manhunt for the suspect.
The Interior Ministry outlined key security concerns with petty offences like pickpocketing and muggings expected to increase especially in crowded areas like markets, shopping malls and public transport hubs.
The authorities noted a rise in drug distribution and the production of illicit alcoholic brews, which remain a significant concern during the holidays.
The advisory also raised alarm over the exploitation of vulnerable individuals, including children and victims of gender-based violence.
Further traffic violations have become a major concern during the holidays, with reports of reckless road behaviour such as drunk driving, speeding, and vehicle overloading.
Another issue flagged is noise violations, which tend to increase during the festive period due to celebrations and public gatherings.