This archive report was first published on 5 May 2020.
Published on May 5, 2020, the sudden transfer of Vincent Makhoha, the area commander of the Kenya Police Service Commission in Nyanza region, has sparked tension among the rank and file.
Makhoha's official car was once used by President Uhuru Kenyatta while touring Kisumu, sparking speculation about his close relationship with the president.
Regional police reservists head Boniface Otieno and church leaders, led by Presiding Bishop Washington Ngede, have expressed shock and consternation over Makhoha's transfer, citing concerns for regional security.
Makhoha has been moved to the Vigilance House Annex, where he will oversee the National Police Reserve, previously headed by Leonard Katana, whom Makhoha succeeded early last year.
However, investigations have revealed that Makhoha's transfer was orchestrated by powerful forces at the Directorate of Criminal Investigations in Nyanza and Vigilance House, who were allegedly unhappy with his efforts to crack down on drug and contraband trafficking rings in the region.
Sources claim that some officers at the DCI office, including Nyanza DCI boss Joseph Kipsoi, were involved in protecting individuals who smuggled illicit brews and ethanol from neighboring countries.
Several police officers and members of the public have expressed concerns over the posting of senior officers to Nyanza region, citing a lack of diversity and the presence of Kalenjin officers in key positions.
