On 21 September 2013, a devastating attack on the Westgate mall left over 60 people dead and dozens injured. The attack, which lasted over 80 hours, was one of the most shocking in the city's history.
Among the heroes of that fateful day were police officers who put their lives at risk to rescue trapped victims. Chief Inspector Stephen Lelei, Sergeant Tawfiq Baya, Sergeant Aden Iya, and Constable Benjamin Chemjor were among those who arrived at the mall and managed to rescue high-profile figures.
Lelei, a former Kabete OCS, was shot and injured in the foot by the terrorists during the operation. He had received a distress call from taxi drivers who knew him from previous missions. Benjamin Chepnjor was filmed as he carried a child in one hand and a gun in the other, while a woman crouched behind him as he led them out of the mall to safety.
Businessman Abdul Haji had gone in search of his brother who had texted him that he was trapped in the mall. Armed with a pistol, he joined the rescue operation. A police officer identified as Noor was shot in the stomach as he attempted to rescue some of the trapped victims in the mall.
Despite reports of plans to honour the officers, including promotions and awards, nothing has been done. A senior officer who served during the time said that there were several promises, but they were never fulfilled.
“I salute them for the good job, that’s how police are supposed to serve. There were several promises from various quarters, including promotions and awards. It is unfortunate that undeserving people get rewarded handsomely, but our heroes are ignored,” said a source.
Published on 11 October 2019.
