COUNTER-TERRORISM MEASURES AND PERSONAL SECURITY IN LAMU COUNTY, KENYA
Abstract
Terrorism remains a major threat facing several nations of the world. This has compelled nations to implement counter-terrorism measures to cope with terrorism activities. This study examined counter-terrorism measures and its effect on personal security in Lamu, Kenya. The study specifically focused on counter-terrorism measures being applied by security agencies to enhance personal security in Lamu County; effects of various counter terrorism measures by security agencies on personal security in Lamu County and to determine the best practices that can enhance the influence of counter terrorism measures on personal security in Lamu County, Kenya. The study was anchored on securitization theory. The study adopted cross sectional survey design. Purposive sampling technique was adopted to select security agents while Krejcie and Morgan method was used to select general public. The sample size of 391 was selected where 380 were general public and 11 were security agents. Questionnaires and interview guides were used to collect primary data. Quantitative data was coded into SPSS. Data was presented using tables while content analysis was used in qualitative data. The study found that there are various counter-terrorism measures that have been adopted by security agencies on personal security such as surveillance, Nyumba Kumi initiative, increased budget allocation and investigations. Collaboration between the police and the local community in security matter have resulted in fewer cases of terrorism and reduced cases of youth radicalization. There is increased trust level and effective information flow between law enforcement and the community. Human rights practices among security agencies and the community should be emphasized in fight against terrorism. The study recommended that it is necessary for the government to increase public understanding of, and engagement in, counter-terrorism tactics and procedures. Government should encourage inter-agency cooperation in the process of putting anti-terrorism strategies and actions into effect. Plans and actions to combat terrorism must maintain and respect human rights in every operation.
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