No illegal weapons on luxurious yacht docked in Kilifi, Commissioner states

Reports indicated that the yacht was seized with illegal weapons, a statement that Kilifi Commissioner Josphat Biwott, has refuted. 

Security agencies in Kilifi County have denied reports that the luxurious yacht was seized with illegal weapons.

Speaking to Bahari FM, Commissioner Biwott, explained that the boat was detained with six foreign tourists on board after it was established that the vessel was not authorized to dock in Kenyan waters by the Kenya Ports Authority (KPA).

“The yacht is ok. Only that there was an oversight issue. It has been seized because there was no clearance with KPA,” said Biwott. 

Biwott said that the tourists were found with legally owned weapons after being inspected by marine security guards.

“There is no yacht that would sail without protection. The weapons were for their protection. How would they defend themselves if pirates attack them on the sea?” added Biwott.  

The six tourists aboard the yacht are said to be on a visit to Maasai Mara and Amboseli National Parks. 

"The yacht is from Dubai. It has different nationalities. They will be leaving on November 14, going to Madagascar," said Patricia Buri-Sector, commander Tourism police unit, Coast region.

On his part, Kilifi Governor Gideon Mung'aro welcomed "high-end tourists who could spend money and boost the economy." 

"We welcome tourists and urge them to invest in Kilifi," said Mung'aro.