Authority plans single entry to airport as security stepped up

Travellers using Kenya’s airports will take longer to gain entry following the introduction of stiffer security procedures aimed at preventing terror attacks. Photo/ JEFF ANGOTE  

In Summary

• The move will see Airport South Road closed indefinitely, forcing all travellers to access the airport via Mombasa Road.
• Mr Raja Gypala, who was travelling to India, said the new security measures made him feel safer despite the traffic snarl-up.

The airports authority plans to set up a single entry into Jomo Kenyatta International Airport to tighten security at the installation.

This comes after the US Thunderbolt issued an alert warning of possible terror attacks at government installations in the country.

The move will see Airport South Road closed indefinitely, forcing all travellers to access the airport via Mombasa Road.

“We want to ensure that we are able to conduct 80 per cent primary check at one point for the safety of our passengers,” JKIA Deputy Commandant Douglas Kirocho said Thursday.

THOROUGH CHECKS

He said police would continue enforcing thorough security checks announced by the airline on Wednesday.

The new security measures include checking luggage, frisking occupants of vehicles and asking them to state the nature of their business at the airport.

Yesterday, motorists had to endure traffic jam that stretched for more than three kilometres from the airport to Mombasa Road.

“We are experiencing delays and for a moment we were worried we would not make it in time. I travel almost every week and I used to come within an hour or so of my flight but with this check I will have to adjust,” Mr Anthony Karanja said.

Mr Kirocho said most motorists had complied with the new security directive.

“Kenyans understand the need for such measures and they do not feel they are wasting time. We urge the public to continue cooperating and take charge of the security issues by informing authorities of any (unusual) behaviour,” he said.

Mr Raja Gypala, who was travelling to India, said the new security measures made him feel safer despite the traffic snarl-up.

He urged the government to explore other technologies that can expedite the security checks.

“Although it might delay departures, security is essential and this actually makes me feel more secure. However, more organisation is needed to speed up the process,” he added.

The police were required to inspect all the vehicles heading to the airport.

“We are aware that the officers might be overworked but we have to work with the officers we have to secure the national installation,” Mr Kiricho said.