Home News Private Mercenaries Behind Bars for Threatening National Stability

Private Mercenaries Behind Bars for Threatening National Stability

By
Julius Kiprop
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Two Kenyan police officers are facing dismissal for siding with Gen Z protesters. Hiram Kimathi was removed from the police payroll and labeled as "deserted." Dennis Munyao, known as Afande Denno, is under review for possible expulsion. Both officers opposed the forceful crackdown during the July protests. They are now part of a new movement aimed at fighting brutality and impunity. Kimathi’s Stand Sparks Fallout Hiram Kimathi, a police officer who publicly rejected government orders to use force during the Saba Saba protests, has revealed that he is no longer being paid and is marked as "deserted" in the system. He believes this is the government's way of getting rid of him quietly. Kimathi also turned down a transfer to a far-flung station in Todonyang, Turkana, saying it was meant to punish him. After refusing the move, the disciplinary steps began, signaling that his time in the service may soon come to an end. Afande Denno Now on the Edge Another officer, Dennis Munyao — popularly known as Afande Denno — is also in trouble. He became widely admired during the June 25 protests when he protected young demonstrators and encouraged peaceful engagement instead of violence. While the public saw him as a hero, the police command did not take kindly to his actions. According to Denno, he was told his conduct threatened national peace. A committee has since been formed to determine whether or not to dismiss him. He says he cannot turn against Kenyans, who have always supported him. Humanity vs Commands Kimathi and Munyao are both paying heavily for choosing compassion over orders. While many Kenyans have praised their approach, the police service appears unwilling to accommodate their humane way of enforcing the law. Their future in the force is uncertain as a result of their pro-people decisions. New Movement Rises Against Police Brutality The crisis around the two officers has led to the creation of a new group — Fighting Brutality and Impunity (FBI). It is a civil movement led by Patrick Osoi, a former intelligence officer and now a 2027 presidential aspirant. Kimathi is among the co-founders of the initiative. The group plans to expose extrajudicial killings and support police officers who suffer for standing up for justice. For Kimathi and Denno, this might be the start of a bigger mission beyond the badge.
Image/Courtesy.
  • A disgruntled security personnel group is under investigation for threatening national security.
  • The group has been seen wearing military uniforms, training with assault rifles, and engaging in suspicious activities.
  • Key member Patrick Osoi has been arrested, facing charges including terrorism-related recruitment and firearm possession.
  • Cop Shakur was arrested alongside Osoi, and Kimathi Hiram is under surveillance for anti-government actions.
  • Authorities are concerned that the group may mobilise violent resistance against the government.

A newly formed movement, allegedly made up of disgruntled current and former security personnel, has caught the attention of anti-terrorism units. Authorities have raised concerns over the group’s activities, which they claim are a serious threat to national security.

Group’s Activities Under Scrutiny

Military-Style Training: Police report that the group has been seen wearing military-style uniforms, organising in structured formations, and engaging in training with assault rifles at an undisclosed shooting range.

Suspicion of Terrorism: Authorities believe the group may be involved in activities that could fuel terrorism-related actions, further destabilising the country.

Arrest of Key Members

Patrick Osoi, a prominent member of the group, was arrested in Lang’ata on Tuesday and taken to Kahawa Law Courts.

Prosecution’s Request: Although Osoi has not yet been charged, the prosecution has requested 14 days of detention to complete the investigation. He faces at least four serious charges, including possession of a firearm without a certificate, preparing to commit a felony, and facilitating terrorism-related recruitment.

Defence’s Action: Defence lawyers have asked for the right to cross-examine the investigating officer, a request granted by the court. The case will continue on Thursday to discuss Osoi’s bail status.

Cop Shakur, another individual linked to the group, appeared in court alongside Osoi and was subsequently arrested. Shakur is expected to face charges related to the same movement.

The group, which gained some public attention during the 2024 Gen Z protests, is believed to have the potential to mobilise citizens into violent resistance against the government.

Another former police officer, Kimathi Hiram, who publicly rejected a transfer order and voiced anti-government sentiments, is reportedly under police surveillance.

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