Police in Nakuru have denied reports that they impounded three police vehicles for being in Prophet David Owuor’s convoy as he made a grand entry into the town on Friday.
County Police Commander Hassan Barua acknowledged that the cars were seized on Saturday evening, but said it was not because of the escort.
STANDSTILL
Prophet Owuor went to the town for a three-day crusade, a journey which, like others in the past, saw him bring traffic to a standstill.
His is the Ministry of Repentance and Holiness Church.
The Nation established that two of the cars belong to Tharaka and Kabete police stations in Kiambu County.
Commander Barua said, “The cars were found [outside] stations of duty without proper authorisation. They are at the Rift Valley regional police headquarters.”
He noted, “They were not been impounded because of escorting Dr Owuor.”
Mr Barua did not say whether the drivers of the vehicles were arrested or if they recorded statements.
POLICE
Meanwhile, residents took to social media with their comments after a video was shared of motorists waiting on the sides of a road as at least 40 cars passed through.
Some praised the impounding of the vehicles while others were of the view that police overreacted.
Mr Simon Sangale ole Nasieuku said “nobody should be spared”, in apparent support of the officers.
Ms Kate wondered why police officers who are followers of Dr Owuor should be arrested.
Mr John Kiritu said, “Those police officers should be arrested. They harassed motorists using sirens in the name of Dr Owuor.”
Mr Kibet Kirui termed the use of police vehicle as “misuse of public resources”.
PROPHET
Mr Wiseman supported the prophet, saying he unites the country through his peace and reconciliation meetings at his crusades.
“What is wrong in the protection of a messiah? We have seen cartels, drug barons and corrupt individuals using police as escorts. Kenyans, please wake up,” he said.
Mr Simon Ngure dismissed the police presence as a double standard and said Prophet Owuor should use his own guards.
“There were many police officers yet Dr Owuor has bodyguards and instead of order, they brought disorder,” he said.
Dodi Castro defended police saying they also offer services at weddings.
“Hiring one cannot be equated to breaking the law,” he said.
Ms Nimoh said, “Good move. Even Jesus rode on a donkey yet he is the son of God.”
