The directive aims to protect both locals and tourists as the number of visitors to the coastal city increases during the holidays.
Speaking in an interview with NTV on Wednesday, December 10, Mombasa County Police Commander Peter Kimani said no one will be allowed to remain on the beaches after the 6pm whistle.
Once officers sound the signal, beachgoers will be required to leave the water and move away from the shoreline.
Kimani explained that the decision was made to reduce cases of drowning, which tend to rise during this period.
He noted that many incidents occur in the evening when tides are high and visibility is low, making it difficult for swimmers to judge how far they have gone or how strong the currents are.
To strengthen safety efforts, the county’s security teams will work closely with the Kenya Navy to conduct regular patrols along the coastline.
Boats will be deployed to monitor the water, respond to emergencies, and ensure that the 6pm closure rule is strictly followed.
Kimani emphasized that the combined efforts are meant to protect lives, not inconvenience beach users.
“When it reaches 6pm, our officers shall be blowing whistles so that people may get out of the water so that they may not be affected by high tide, and also prevent drowning,” Kimani said.
The new rule is part of a wider plan by county authorities to maintain order during the festive season, when beaches become crowded with holidaymakers.
Apart from water safety, officers will also be watching out for theft, harassment, and other security concerns along the shoreline.