Thousands of commuters stranded as curfew takes effect – PHOTOS

Thousands of commuters in Nairobi were left stranded as the 7pm — 5am curfew imposed by the government took effect on Friday evening.

Most of the matatu termini in the city centre were packed with passengers with very few public service vehicles (PSVs) on sight.

The few matatus that were available seized the opportunity to cash in by hiking the fare even as others flouted the new directive restricting the number of passengers they should carry to facilitate social distancing to curb spread of the coronavirus.

Inspector General of Police Hillary Mutyambai on Friday warned that those found outside their homes within the stipulated 7pm-5am curfew period will be dealt with according to the law.

Mutyambai spoke during a press conference held at Afya House on Friday evening where it was announced that there were no new positive coronavirus cases in Kenya.

The IG also said only those included within the list of essential providers will be allowed to move during curfew, adding that they will however be required to provide legitimate identifications.

“The curfew applies to the entire territory of the Republic of Kenya starting today from 7pm-5am until further notice. It prohibits public gatherings and processions during the curfew. Any person who violates the curfew commits an offence and shall be arrested and charged in a court of law,” said Mutyambai.

“I assure Kenyans that once you stay at home, you will not be arrested. Police will be working in a multi-agency team.”

He further directed police officers who will be on duty during the operation to mount road blocks across the country so as to also restrict movement of motor vehicles.