A police escort rider caused laughter at the ongoing police vetting in Kisumu when he said escorting gods gave him his earnings.
Kondele’s Alfred Ndalana caused a storm when he told a panel chaired by Commissioner Ronald Musengi that a Kisumu businessman Ravi Kotesha gave him money for escorting faithful in paying homage to Hindu gods.
He said he was also paid for escorting the Hindu faithful in marking various celebrations.
He said gets at least Sh3,000 for every occasion.
“He sends me money when I lead in escorting them to mark festivities,” he said.
He was taken to task to explain why he received money from the mogul who has bagged several government contracts in Kisumu.
He said he could not refuse the money.
When asked to say whether receiving such money was in conflict with his job, he said: “Mr Kotesha is a kind-hearted man, he can just give you money when he meets you.”
Mr Musengi said four other police officers, including Kisumu traffic base commander Jane Mbevi had been roped into the conflict.
They were said to be receiving money from the officer, understandably for escort services.
Mr Kotesha, who runs a series of businesses is a perennial contractor with the government and currently fuels police vehicles in Kisumu and supplies vehicle spare parts and stationary for the force.
He is also contracted to construct police stations and houses in the region.