DIG Eliud Lagat Issues Tough Warning Ahead of Ol Kalou By-Election as Police Vow Heavy Security Crackdown
Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat has assured residents of Ol Kalou that extensive security arrangements have been put in place ahead of the highly anticipated by-election, warning that anyone attempting to disrupt peace or orchestrate violence will face swift legal action.
Speaking on Friday, July 10, after chairing the quarterly meeting of senior Kenya Police Service commanders alongside officials from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), Lagat said security agencies were fully prepared to guarantee a peaceful, free and secure electoral process.
The Deputy Inspector General said law enforcement officers had already been deployed strategically across the constituency to prevent any incidents that could threaten public safety before, during and after the vote.
“We have enough security in that particular area of Ol Kalou, and there is no space for anyone to organise criminal activities there,” Lagat said.
His remarks come amid heightened political activity in Ol Kalou, where rival camps have intensified campaigns ahead of the by-election, prompting concerns over possible election-related violence.
Lagat delivered a stern warning to individuals planning to sponsor or participate in acts of violence, saying police would not hesitate to act against anyone seeking to destabilise the electoral process.
He revealed that security agencies were closely monitoring suspected criminal elements and anyone attempting to mobilise gangs to intimidate voters or disrupt polling activities.
According to the Deputy Inspector General, those found engaging in violence, organising criminal gangs or inciting unrest would be placed under police surveillance, arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the law.
“We will not allow anyone to threaten the safety of wananchi or interfere with the democratic process. Anyone planning to cause chaos should know that security agencies are alert and ready to act,” he said.
Lagat also urged residents to cooperate with security officers, remain peaceful throughout the election period and report any suspicious activities to the authorities.
The National Police Service has repeatedly maintained that it remains committed to providing adequate security during elections, with commanders directed to respond swiftly to any incidents that may compromise peace and public order.
The Ol Kalou by-election is expected to attract significant political attention, with security agencies seeking to ensure that voters exercise their democratic rights in a peaceful and secure environment.
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