The unwillingness by residents of Elgeyo Marakwet to give evidence in court is fanning insecurity in the county.
Area County Commissioner Dr. Ahmed Omar said the police do their part and arrest culprits involved in insecurity incidents along the Elgeyo Marakwet-West Pokot-Baringo boundary but the suspects are acquitted for lack of evidence.
Addressing wananchi at Iten sportsground after reading the presidential speech during celebrations to mark Jamhuri day, the administrator said wananchi have a responsibility of producing evidence in court so that a suspect can be convicted.
“It is frustrating when a suspect is arrested and taken to court only to be released for lack of evidence. Later the same people who failed to give evidence start claiming that the police have been bribed to have the suspect released,” he said.
Noting that the war on insecurity required concerted efforts from security personnel, leaders and wananchi to succeed, the CC said it was sad that even when a person has been killed and a suspect arrested, no one turns up to give evidence.
Omar regretted that some police reservists and chiefs were collaborating with criminals and warned stern action including prosecution will be taken against anyone found committing such an offense.
“The police reservists will have their guns withdrawn and later taken to court while chiefs will be sacked before being arrested,” the administrator warned.
Noting that defilement cases were on the rise in the county, the CC warned any person found trying to settle such matters outside court will be dealt with severely.
He called on religious leaders to preach against such vices and as well encouraged people to observe strict societal morals saying no religion encourages immorality.
Omar also called on chiefs to report immediately cases of female genital mutilation so that those responsible can be apprehended and prosecuted.
By Alice Wanjiru
