On February 1st, John, an enforcement officer for the Nairobi City County Inspectorate, encountered a life-altering situation while carrying out his routine duties.
Assigned alongside a colleague, he was tasked with addressing illegal construction activity in KMA Estate, South C Ward. Their objective was to halt the construction on disputed land. Upon arrival at the site, they immediately approached the area to locate the supervisors. However, their attempt to enforce compliance was met with hostility as a group of young construction workers ambushed and assaulted them. John sustained severe injuries, including fractured legs, leaving him unable to walk without assistance.
The construction site, consisting of five buildings being built simultaneously, had significantly altered the neighbourhood. The county planning department had requested the inspectorate’s assistance to ensure compliance, but the response was a brutal attack, leaving John reliant on a wheelchair. Despite these concerning developments, Governor Johnson Sakaja and the county government remained silent, raising questions about their commitment to the safety of their personnel.
Attempts to obtain further information regarding the attack and potential arrests proved futile, as calls and messages to county officials went unanswered. This incident followed another concerning event just a week prior where two female inspectors were seriously injured in Kayole KCC, with no apparent response from the county leadership. Sources within the inspectorate reveal concerns among officers regarding the escalating number of attacks while on duty and the governor’s silence on these issues. These concerns were echoed by County Assembly Members (MCAs) who expressed alarm, particularly considering the near-fatal injuries sustained by some officers.
On Monday, a visit to the site by County Assembly’s Justice and Legal Affairs Committee chairman Jared Akama and Alvin Olando Palapala, in charge of planning, revealed that construction work was still ongoing, despite previous assurances of its cessation. Following public outcry, Governor Sakaja has finally issued a statement acknowledging the incident and confirming the revocation of the building permit. However, questions remain regarding the safety of inspectors and the county’s commitment to addressing the escalating violence faced by its personnel. Moreover, the resumption of construction work after the initial halt raises concerns about the effectiveness of the implemented measures.
The brutes have met their…
The brutes have met their match.There is nothing wrong with attacking,crippling or even killing the cruel Railas.Whoever did it REVENGED for many victims who have suffered in the hands of the Kabogos.ASHANTE SANA
Iam not surprised. These so…
Iam not surprised. These so called building inspectors are nothing but extortionates. Sakanja and the DCI should be investigating what these guys really do. They are looking for bribes like all Kenyans do.
The public workers who…
The public workers who should be spanked are not the county codes enforcement officers, KRA attack dogs should. I saw them confiscate a CPAP machine at JKIA simply because the poor old lady could not afford an $80.00 tax. I thought medical equipment are exempt.