Murkomen Denies Knowing About Heavy Police Deployment at JKIA during Gachagua's Homecoming
- A contingent of Police Officers was seen at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) during former deputy president Rigathi Gachagua's homecoming
- However, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen said he was not aware of the deployment
- The CS clarified his statement, explaining why he was unaware of the matter, as he affirmed the police's commitment to protecting the country
Faith Chandianya, a journalist at TUKO.co.ke, brings over three years of experience covering politics and Current Affairs in Kenya
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen denied knowing about the deployment of police officers at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) during the former deputy president Rigathi Gachagua's homecoming.
Source: Facebook
Gachagua arrived in the country after his tour in the United States of America, where he engaged Kenyans as he visited various states.
A heavy contingent of anti-riot police, the General Service Unit (GSU), and anti-terror squads had taken up positions across different sections of the JKIA
The heightened security was observed as supporters of the Democracy for Citizens Party leader arrived back in the country.
Supporters gathered around sections of the country's busiest airport as they anticipated their leader, who cut short his trip that was supposed to last for two months.
Who notified Murkomen about police at JKIA?
Speaking to the press on Thursday, August 21, the Cabinet secretary stated that he was informed of the heavy police presence at the JKIA by a journalist.
"You are the one who has informed me that there was a heavy deployment. I was also not aware," Murkomen stated.
Seemingly defending himself, Murkomen implied that police officers usually know what they need to do, thus perform their duties well.
Why was Murkomen unaware of police deployment?
However, he added they only inform the Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja or him when they have specific requests that could only be approved by them
He asserted that the National Police Service is centralised and everybody does their job as expected.
"Generally, even the IG doesnot have to know about the deployment of police at a particular place. Unless they are seeking specific requests from the IG, that there is need for reinforcement, then the IG will be informed. Police officers everywhere don't have to call the IG before they do law enforcement. They can do their job," Murkomen said.
Emphasising the National Police Service's commitment to protecting the country, Murkomen said they are always on alert to ensure that any person or issue that would affect the country's peace will be addressed
Police lob teargas during Gchagua's homecoming
Gachagua's homecoming was characterised by drama and chaos after unknown assailants infiltrated it.
Source: Facebook
The goons began hurling stones at Gachagua's convoy before his supporters retaliated. This prompted the police to intervene by lobbing teargas in a bid to disperse the crowd.
Gachagua's allies claimed that the state and the Nairobi County government were behind the dramatic turn of events during the party leader's return.
Source: TUKO.co.ke
