Police to remain on high alert

Photo/JACOB OWITI | NATION Anti-riot police officers patrol Kisumu town on Saturday shortly after the electoral commission released results of the March 4 polls.  NATION MEDIA GROUP

By ZADDOCK ANGIRA zangira@ke.nationmedia.com
Posted  Sunday, March 10  2013 at  00:30

Inspector General of Police David Kimaiyo has said no major incident was reported across the country following the announcement of the presidential results.

Mr Kimaiyo said all security agents had been directed to stay on high alert and cooperate with the public.

“Our officers will continue to provide security at all times. Anyone who notices incidents of lawlessness is encouraged to report immediately,” said Kimaiyo on Saturday.

He commended security officers for keeping the peace, saying he appreciateed their devotion, tolerance, perseverance and commitment to duty during the electioneering period.

Police murders

The police boss, however, acknowledged that the police force suffered a major blow following the brutal murder of ten officers at the Coast. Among those killed were an OCPD and an OCS.

Kimaiyo admitted that the Mombasa Republican Council (MRC) was still a problem in the Coast region but warned stern action will be taken against the group.

“A lot of political progress has been made towards resolving the injustices the MRC has been agitating against and this process must be allowed to peacefully run its course,” said Kimaiyo.

He, however, warned that the police force will not betray the memory of the slain officers by compromising the cause for which they gave their lives.

The MRC has been agitating for seccesation from the rest of the country citing historical injustices perpetuated by politicians over the years.

Kimaiyo also met former Mungiki leader Maina Njenga in his office where the two discussed security issues in Nairobi and its environs.

He said Njenga had committed to fostering close ties between his supporters and the police to ensure security prevailed in the country.

In Nairobi, areas initially reported as potential hotspots after the release of the presidential results did not report any incidents.

Nairobi PPO Benson Kibue said Mathare, Kibera, Kangemi all remained peaceful.

False reports

He, however, said they were investigating the spread of false reports warning of chaos in some parts of Nairobi, especially Kibera.

“Since Friday, we have heard reports of chaos in some parts of Nairobi and we are now investigating the motive of such false reports.”