Nairobi, October 16- Operations at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) were temporarily suspended on Thursday following a security incident during the arrival of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s remains.
In a statement, the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) said the suspension was caused by large crowds of mourners who breached restricted areas to witness the arrival. Authorities temporarily closed the airport to restore order and ensure safety.
“KCAA informs the public that operations at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport have been temporarily suspended due to an ongoing security situation following the arrival of the remains of the late Rt. Hon. Raila Odinga,” said Director General Emile Arao.
The authority urged the public and travellers to remain calm and avoid the airport until further notice, assuring that normal operations would resume once the area is secure. A Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) has been issued to alert aviation stakeholders of the temporary closure.
KCAA expects operations to resume within two hours once security assessments are complete.
The incident occurred as crowds of mourners and boda boda riders surged into the State Pavilion, disrupting the official reception ceremony. Some supporters breached barriers and even scaled perimeter walls, chanting Raila’s name and waving twigs as security officers struggled to contain the situation.
Despite the commotion, the atmosphere remained largely peaceful as Kenyans gathered to pay their final respects to the late statesman.
