Police officers working in Trans Nzoia County have been encouraged to go for guiding and counseling sessions often to cope with challenges associated with the profession.
Trans Nzoia County Commissioner Mr. Samson Ojwang made the appeal on Sunday at Saiwa National Park in Chereng’any Sub County during a thanksgiving ceremony organized by the area Critical Infrastructure Protection Unit (CIPU).
Ojwang regretted that the country had lost many youthful police officers over the years as a result of avoidable challenges associated with the disciplined force.
“The country has recorded many unfortunate incidents in which police officers, due to pressure associated with work, either commit suicide, kill their colleagues or even turn their anger and kill innocent members of public,” CC Ojwang said.
He cited an incident early this year in the county where the bodies of a couple attached to Kiminini Police Station and Kiungani Police Post were found in their houses.
An autopsy report of the tragedy revealed the husband had shot his wife before turning the gun on himself.
The CC said the National Police Service could avert such unfortunate incidents from occurring in future by encouraging officers to regularly attend guidance and counseling sessions.
He urged senior officers in the unit to ensure such counseling services were availed or made easily accessible to the security personnel under their command.
The County administrator further asked the NPS to reward, through promotions and other incentives, hardworking officers.
“It’s not fair to keep a hardworking officer for over 10 years in the rank of constable. Such are some of the factors which contribute to tragic incidents by aggrieved officers,” Ojwang noted.
Ojwang also asked the NPS to allow police officers to visit their families frequently, noting such would greatly address cases of family disputes and breakups involving the officers.
He challenged the police officers in the county to always remain God fearing and strive towards leading righteous lives when on duty and away from their work stations.
“Let us always turn to God whenever faced with personal and work related challenges,” urged Ojwang.
CIPU County Commander Mr. John Opiyo also addressed the colourful event.
By Maurice Aluda
