The Inspector General of Police, Japhet Koome, responded to the attack on Retired President Uhuru Kenyatta’s Northland farm claiming that police responded quickly, contrary to reports.
Koome first condemned the violent attacks on police officers on duty and property destruction, which he claimed were caused by the Azimio la Umoja-One Kenya Alliance’s unlawful demonstrations in Nairobi.
During the Northlands City and Spectre raids, police avoided mentioning the private properties, instead referring to them solely by their location.
“We also received reports of the invasion and destruction of a farm in Kiambu County. Relatedly, we received reports of an invasion of a private company within the Embakasi area in Nairobi, to which Our Officers responded swiftly and prevented further crimes,” Koome stated, despite reports indicating that police took hours to respond to the raids.
Koome also addressed the destruction of property and the attacks on police, stating, “Yesterday, Monday, March 20, 2023, [sic] (he was referring to Monday, March 27) property of unknown value was destroyed in Nairobi, including two police motor vehicles and 23 officers injured.
“Our investigation into the destructions and injuries caused has begun, and those found culpable shall face the law. We appeal to the public to adhere to the rule of law when exercising their Constitutional rights to picket, petition or demonstrate.”
Nonetheless, he lauded police for carrying out their duties with the utmost respect for the rule of law, claiming that they acted with restraint during the unlawful protests.
“Finally, we wish to assure the public that Our Country is safe. As a Service, we remain focused on discharging our duties, including maintaining law and order, protecting life and property, and fostering good police-community relations, and reiterate that we will continue to do so without fear or favour,” Koome detailed.
Raila Odinga, the leader of the Azimio La Umoja One Kenya coalition, condemned the raid on Uhuru’s farm on Monday, March 27, and urged state agencies to conduct an immediate investigation.
Raila also issued a warning to the goons who attacked his industrial firm, the East Africa Spectre Limited gas plant on Mombasa Road in Nairobi.
“Those cowards sent goons today to Uhuru Kenyatta’s farm. They have also resorted to sending people to my Spectre factory. That is an act of crime and stupidity,” Odinga told protesters in Nairobi’s Kibera area.
