Private security entities utilizing security animals, particularly dogs, now face potential fines of up to KES 300,000 for any acts of mistreatment, according to a statement issued by Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki in the latest regulations governing the use of animals in private security services.
Kindiki emphasizes that custodians of these animals must uphold principles of respect and dignity towards them, ensuring accountability for any actions performed by the animals under their care.
Additionally, owners are mandated to prevent the animals from experiencing fear, pain, stress, or suffering, and must provide appropriate living conditions and transportation without subjecting them to harm or distress.
The regulations further mandate that security animals receive necessary veterinary care in cases of illness, injury, or reproduction, with medical procedures conducted in a manner that minimizes any unnecessary suffering for the animals.
Should an animal cause injury or damage to a non-trespasser, the custodian may be fined up to one hundred thousand or face imprisonment for a term not exceeding three months, or both.
Provisions within the regulations also prohibit cruelty towards security animals, requiring handlers to refrain from any form of abuse or mistreatment and to ensure that animals are not used when unfit due to disease or injury.
Additionally, comfortable transportation and adequate feeding are deemed essential, alongside the maintenance of a clean environment and the avoidance of abandonment by handlers.
Violation of these regulations carries significant penalties, with fines not exceeding three hundred thousand or imprisonment for up to three years, or both, for natural persons.
For juristic persons, such as private security providers, fines of up to one million shillings are applicable upon conviction.
These regulations coincide with demands from the Private Security Regulatory Authority (PSRA) for improved salaries for the 1.3 million officials within the sector, advocating for a minimum wage of KES 30,000 per month to ensure fair compensation for security personnel.
