Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Contributor
Published on 2024-03-10 13:13:37
Months have passed since the brutal daytime attack at Pinewood Beach Resort and Spa in Diani, Kenya, yet the employees who experienced the horror of armed assailants still feel the impact of the incident and yearn for justice.
During a press briefing on Sunday, workers expressed their concerns that without swift action, a similar attack could occur again, as the perpetrators have yet to be held accountable despite being captured on the hotel’s CCTV cameras. Promises of thorough investigations by local police and Tourism Cabinet Secretary Dr. Alfred Mutua have not been fulfilled.
The scars from the injuries sustained during the attack on November 17th of last year are a constant reminder for many staff members at the resort. The vicious assault followed two other incidents targeting the facility, leaving employees like Alfred Gogo shaken and emotional as they recall the traumatic events.
Armed assailants caught hotel staff off guard, instilling fear and a sense of imminent danger. Teresia Wanjiku highlighted the urgency for justice not only for themselves but also for the safety of future guests and workers in the hospitality sector.
Security guard Phillip Ochieng emphasized that the wounds, both physical and emotional, are still raw for many employees who continue to struggle with nightmares and anxiety. The lack of closure and the feeling that justice has not been served only adds to their pain, creating a sense of frustration and helplessness among the workers.
Colleague Mohammed Issa echoed the need for closure, not just for the staff directly impacted but also for their families and the broader community. The hotel owners have accused a bank receiver of attempting to forcefully take over the property, complicating an already challenging situation.
Julius Owino, CEO of the Kenya Coast Tourist Association, stressed that the lack of action following the attack could harm the fragile tourism sector, which is still recovering from the impacts of the global COVID-19 pandemic. He called on the Director of Criminal Investigations to prioritize the case and ensure that justice is served to safeguard the reputation of Kenya as a safe and welcoming destination.
The attack disrupted the hotel’s operations, causing extensive damage to property and injuring numerous staff members. With millions of dollars in losses and the lingering trauma experienced by employees, the need for accountability and improved security measures is paramount to prevent future incidents and protect the tourism industry.
As the workers continue to strive for closure and justice, the government and law enforcement agencies are urged to take decisive action to apprehend the perpetrators and enhance security protocols to restore confidence in the hospitality sector and reassure visitors of Kenya’s commitment to safety and security.
Read the original article on Africa News 24
