Kenyan Under Investigation for Setting Up Unauthorized Police Patrol Base

Police Patrol Base
An image of an illegal Police Patrol Base in Uasin Gishu county
Citizen Digital

Authorities in Uasin Gishu County have confirmed investigations have been launched into a bizarre establishment of a police patrol base by a civilian.

Kenyans.co.ke obtained the police report detailing how the individual, who hailed from Asis Village in Ndugulu location, Uasin Gishu county, somehow duped everyone by establishing a patrol base.

According to the report, the unauthorized base was set up at the Cherus centre in one of the buildings belonging to a landlord.

The report further clarified that the individual in question painted the building with all police force colours, doing so without the knowledge of any senior police officers.

Police Station
A police station in Kenya.
Photo
NPS

Police officers reportedly discovered the illegal patrol base on Saturday, March 8 at around 11 am.

Among the key aspects under investigation are whether the suspect had been actively operating the facility and if the landlord was aware that his building was being used as an unauthorized government institution.

Further reports indicate that residents were also duped into believing they had a police patrol base in the area, and were only made aware that it was illegal when authorities flagged it on Saturday.

Police Patrol bases are typically established in remote or high-crime areas, with such posts acting as strategic outposts for quick response to criminal activities. 

Such bases also provide crucial areas for facilitating arrests and initial case handling before suspects are transferred to main police stations. 

That said, the process of setting up a police station is quite gruelling, as it involves several stakeholders, including the National Police Service (NPS) leadership.

After a formal request by area leaders, such as MCAs, county governments, or the public through petitions, the NPS and the Inspector General of Police (IGP) must approve the proposal. The Ministry of Interior then seconds the approval, providing funding and policy direction.

A feasibility study follows, and upon final approval, land is identified for the station. Construction then begins to establish key facilities, including an armory, cells, and offices.

Ruai Police Station
An image of Ruai Police Station
The Standard
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