IG Koome: Police responded quickly to Northlands heist
Inspector General of Police (IG) Japhet Koome has disproved accusations that police took too long to react to the daring raid at the Northlands City Farm in Ruiru, Kiambu County, which belongs to the family of former President Uhuru Kenyatta.
In a statement on Tuesday, March 28, the IG highlighted that the officers had responded quickly to the invasion.
“We also received reports of the invasion and destruction of a Farm in Kiambu County. Relatedly, we received reports of an invasion of a private company within the Embakasi area in Nairobi to which Our Officers responded swiftly and prevented further crimes,” stated Koome in part.
He also said that investigations had been launched into who was in charge of the destructions sustained during the audacious incursions on private property.
“Our investigation into the destructions and injuries caused has begun, and those found culpable shall face the law. We are appealing to the public to adhere to the rule of law when exercising their Constitutional rights to picket, petition or demonstrate,” he went on.
Koome also praised the officers for carrying out their duties during the protests while abiding by the law.
“Meanwhile, we commend our Officers for discharging their duties with utmost respect for the rule of law as demonstrated by their restrain during the unlawful protests.
“Finally, we wish to assure the public that Our Country is safe. As a Service, we remain focused on discharging our duties including maintenance of law and order, protection of life and property, and fostering good police-community relations, and reiterate that we will continue to do so without fear or favour,” he added.
According to Northlands farm manager, over 1,400 Dorper sheep were stolen and carried away by the protestors on their shoulders, who sold them to onlookers for as little as Ksh1,000.
However, depending on the breed, the sheep are worth about Ksh50,000. The price of Dorper rams is significantly higher than that of ewes.
The Northlands Farm was also set on fire after the looters stole the sheep during the Azimio la Umoja protests.
When police arrived, they discovered many makeshift shelters made of iron sheet built by the intruders as well as what appeared to be a subdivision on the property. Additionally, the area’s previous irrigation system was removed, and the pipes from that system were later utilized to fence the various land portions.
The shacks were already being demolished by Northland City employees while the officers continue to survey the situation.
Meanwhile, Azimio la Umoja leaders led by Raila Odinga have insisted that they will be back to the streets on Thursday 30 March to protest against the high costs of living as well as the demand for the servers to be opened.
