Police Dismiss Claims of Paying Ksh2M Rent Debt Following Officers’ Eviction
Confusion has gripped Mwea-West, Kirinyaga County, following the eviction of police officers from their patrol base.
Residents are now voicing serious security concerns. The sudden departure of the officers, after a lorry was seen removing their belongings, has left many businesses closing early.
Police spokesperson Michael Muchiri has strongly refuted claims that the National Police Service owes Ksh2 million in rent arrears.
Muchiri asserts that the building was donated by a local resident, now deceased, to enhance local security. He clarified that no formal rental agreement existed between the police and the owner’s family, complicating the current situation.
The eviction has created a palpable tension in the community. One business owner explained, “There is a lot of tension here since we saw a police lorry come to pick up our officers. From yesterday, we have been forced to close businesses as early as 6 p.m.”
Another local businessperson echoed these concerns, emphasizing the immediate impact on daily activities. “If the building has rent arrears, they should be helped to clear them so they can continue providing security,” they suggested. The Riandira patrol base, initially housing ten officers, now stands empty, leaving a significant security vacuum.
Residents are questioning the government’s plans to address this gap, especially considering the nearest police station is four kilometers away.
The dispute arose after the landlord’s death, when the family demanded rent payments, leading to the accumulation of the alleged Ksh2 million debt.
The necessity for police patrol bases in rented spaces stems from the lack of government-owned infrastructure in certain areas. This is especially true in regions facing development challenges.
Additionally, the need for rapid response in high-risk zones often necessitates establishing police posts on private property, using both formal and informal agreements.
The current situation in Mwea-West highlights the challenges faced when such agreements break down, leaving communities vulnerable.
In Other News: Kenyan Sentenced to Death in Saudi Arabia to Return Home After Ksh 129.5M Payment
Police Dismiss Claims of Paying Ksh2M Rent Debt Following Officers’ Eviction
