[Matuu Ward MCA, Mbili Ndawa, addressing the crowd during a demonstration over rogue area OCS. Photo|Darren Bogoria]
Business at the ever-busy Matuu town in Machakos County came to a standstill on Monday for the better part of the day when thousands of residents blocked the Nairobi-Garissa highway protesting against an OCS.
The residents claimed James Nyakangi, Matuu police station's OCS harassed innocent locals when he served at the station for five years as the head of crime.
The locals who comprised traders and a section of MCAs from Yatta Sub-County led by Matuu's, Mbili Ndawa, conducted peaceful demonstrations to Matuu police station in an attempt to eject the James Nyakangi from office.
The residents who appealed to the Inspector General of Police Joseph Boinett to transfer the officer from the station alleged that the OCS had been terrorizing them especially the business community in collaboration with criminals.
The residents said the officer boasts of having a Godfather who protects him by ensuring he stays in any station of his choice.
Yatta deputy county commissioner Edward Chabari intervened and pleaded with the angry residents to restrain assuring them that their grievances would be addressed.
They, however, heeded the commissioner’s advise but threatened to return to streets after two days if the officer is not transferred within 24 hours.
Ndawa claimed his life is in danger.
“If I die you should ask the OCS because he has promised to deal with me for demanding his removal from the stations,’’ Ndawa said during the protests.
The commissioner assured the MCA of total protection from the government stating he had nothing to worry about.
Nyakangi has, however, denied the allegations terming them malicious and political.
He has threatened to sue those behind the demonstrations and tarnishing his name.
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