Police in Laikipia West have arrested two officers implicated in the trafficking of 10 Eritrean nationals. Acting on a tip-off, a multi-agency security team intercepted the individuals in the Sipili area and detained them at Rumuruti Police Station. The operation has shed light on a concerning trend of law enforcement officers allegedly aiding illegal immigration in Kenya.
The 10 Eritreans, suspected to have entered the country illegally, were discovered in two vehicles: a Toyota Voxy and a Nissan Vanette. The vehicles were reportedly packed in a bush within Sipili to avoid detection.
According to police reports, the operation began after credible intelligence was received regarding the movements of the two vehicles. The multi-agency team tracked down the vehicles and apprehended their occupants, including two police officers identified as key facilitators in the trafficking network.
Arrest of the Officers
The first vehicle, a Nissan Vanette, was traced to a bushy area in Sipili. It was occupied by a police officer, P.C. Onduso of Sipili Police Station, and another individual believed to be the driver. However, the driver managed to escape upon spotting the police team.
The second vehicle, a Toyota Voxy with registration KBX 580U, was being driven by Corporal Wilson Nderitu of Ol-Moran Police Station. Upon searching the vehicle, officers found the 10 Eritrean nationals cramped inside.
A police report from Rumuruti detailed the incident, stating:
“The same was trailed and found packed in a nearby bush within Sipili area with two occupants, one being a police officer, P.C. Onduso, of Sipili Police Station, and a suspected driver who escaped upon noticing the police vehicle. Also, a motor vehicle KBX 580U, make Toyota Voxy, driven by CPL Wilson Nderitu of Ol-Moran Police Station, was intercepted. Upon conducting a search, ten aliens of Eritrean origin were found. All arrested and the two motor vehicles detained at Rumuruti Police Station.”
Rising Concerns Over Police Involvement
This incident has raised questions about the involvement of police officers in aiding illegal immigration. Authorities have expressed concern over such cases, emphasizing the need for stringent measures to curb human trafficking and ensure the integrity of law enforcement.
Laikipia West Deputy County Commissioner, speaking to the press, condemned the officers’ actions, stating that their behavior undermines the rule of law.
“We will not tolerate any officers who engage in activities that betray the trust bestowed upon them by the citizens. Such actions not only compromise security but also tarnish the image of the police force,” he said.
Detention and Further Investigations
The Eritrean nationals are being held at Rumuruti Police Station as authorities conduct further investigations. Initial reports suggest they may have been en route to a third country, with Kenya serving as a transit point. The detainees will likely face immigration charges, while the officers will be charged with abetting human trafficking.
Police sources revealed that the vehicles involved are also being held as exhibits in the case. Meanwhile, a manhunt is underway for the escaped driver of the Nissan Vanette.
A Wider Problem
The arrest of police officers in this case highlights a larger issue of corruption and complicity in human trafficking networks within Kenya. The government has recently ramped up efforts to combat trafficking, which often targets vulnerable individuals fleeing conflict or economic hardship in their home countries.
Stakeholders have called for increased surveillance, thorough vetting of law enforcement officers, and harsher penalties for those found guilty of aiding illegal activities. Advocacy groups have also urged the government to address the root causes of migration by promoting regional stability and economic opportunities.
As the case unfolds, the government is expected to reaffirm its commitment to upholding Kenya’s borders and tackling human trafficking networks, including rooting out corruption within its security agencies.
