Plans are underway to start legal proceedings against rogue Trans Nzoia County government officers who have been brutalising residents in
the name of combating the Coronavirus spread.
The rogue officers have been unleashing terror on boda boda operators and traders within Kitale town in the name of enforcing the Ministry of Health’s social distancing guidelines.
The chairman of the Trans Nzoia civil societies’ network Mr. James Omaria said the group has documented more than 20 cases of victims
of the brutality who have suffered physical injuries. “We are engaging our legal team to take up the matter in court as a matter of urgency. We have identified the notorious ones and they will soon face charges of assault and malicious damage of property,” said the programme’s officer Mr. Bonface Wanyoike.
Among those seeking Justice is Abraham Simiyu whose assault video made rounds on social media after he was mercilessly clobbered and dragged along the road in Kitale CBD. “I sustained injuries on my left ribs, hands, back and shoulders after being attacked by the askaris. I can’t fend for my children in this state,” said Mr. Simiyu.
The officers are also accused of clobbering unarmed women selling groceries despite the national government saying such traders
should be allowed to operate as long they observe the guidelines.
Human rights activist Immaculate Shamala took issue with Trans Nzoia Governor Patrick
Khaemba over his silence on the matter saying he seems not bothered by the inhumane way in which his askaris are operating. “Where is our Governor when people who rose up early in the morning to vote for him are being victimised. The fight against Corona should not
be a scapegoat to terrorize Trans Nzoia residents,” said Mrs. Shamala.