Pilgrims in Cave Unaware of Curfew Released

A photo of George Natembeya addresses journalists on destruction in the Mau Forest Complex in his office in Nakuru on September 13, 2019.
George Natembeya addresses journalists on destruction in the Mau Forest Complex in his office in Nakuru on September 13, 2019.
Daily Nation

Police today have released 12 Akorino adherents who were arrested on Sunday 29th March, while worshipping in a cave near Aberdare forest in Nyandarua County.

The nine adults and three children who were arrested following a tip-off from members of the public were released after receiving further education on how to protect themselves against contracting Coronavirus.

While speaking to Standard digital Kirima location chief Daniel Wainaina, said the 12 seemed to know nothing about what is going on in the world about the disease.

An undated image of a police vehicle at a scene of a crime
A police vehicle pictured at a scene of a crime
Photo
NPS

"Instead of preferring them with charges, we chose to educate them. We taught them how to wash their hands, maintain social distance and how to cover their mouths while sneezing,” said the chief.

"We got a tip-off from members of the public that they had spotted them going towards the cave and that was when we took action. We found them deep in prayers and arrested them" added Wainaina.

The chief also warned those who flout the new directives that action will be taken against them.

The curfew directive issued by President Uhuru Kenyatta on Wednesday 25 also outlawed public gatherings so as to curb the spread of Covid-19.

The administrative official told reporters that the cave shall be destroyed in order to bar anyone from visiting it.

Kenyans have been encouraged to observe social distancing amongst themselves and to stay clear of unnecessary movement. Last week, Rift Valley Regional Commissioner George Natembeya made a plea to Kenyans.

"Kindly stay wherever you are, stop unnecessary movements upcountry as you risk infecting the elderly and fellow loved ones'' said the seasoned government official.

So far Kenya has recorded 50 cases of Coronavirus, with Nairobi registering the highest number at 37 cases.

A photo of Kenya Red Cross paramedics and volunteers at the Nakuru County Level 5 Hospital during a training exercise on the proper use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPEs) in light of the Covid-19 pandemic on Saturday, March 15, 2020.
Kenya Red Cross paramedics and volunteers at the Nakuru County Level 5 Hospital during a training exercise on the proper use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPEs) in light of the Covid-19 pandemic on Saturday, March 15, 2020.
File
  • .