On Monday, October 12, 2026, a disturbing video surfaced on social media showing two men, allegedly intoxicated, harassing a motorbike rider near Kariobangi Roundabout in Nairobi. The two individuals, who claimed to be City Council askaris, roughed up the rider while accusing him of flouting traffic rules. Their conduct has raised concerns over the growing number of individuals impersonating law enforcement officers to intimidate members of the public and extort money from them.
According to eyewitnesses, the two men demanded a bribe from the motorbike rider, who was left shaken by the encounter. The video, which has sparked widespread outrage, shows the two suspects using aggressive language and gestures towards the rider. One of the suspects was heard saying, "Ongea na askari vizuri. Huyu ni kanjo na alikua ashike pikipiki," which translates to "Talk to the askari nicely. This is a City Council officer, and he was holding a motorbike."
The incident has sparked concerns over the safety of motorbike riders and other members of the public who are often targeted by rogue individuals posing as law enforcement officers. The City Council of Nairobi has issued a statement condemning the incident and promising to take action against those involved. An investigation has been launched to identify the suspects and bring them to justice.
The two suspects, who have not been named, are believed to be residents of Nairobi. Their actions have been widely condemned by the public, with many calling for increased security measures to prevent such incidents in the future. The motorbike rider, who was shaken by the encounter, has been advised to seek counseling.
The incident has also raised questions about the ease with which individuals can impersonate law enforcement officers in Kenya. According to experts, the lack of proper identification and verification processes has made it easier for rogue individuals to pose as askaris and extort money from the public.
The City Council of Nairobi has urged the public to be vigilant and report any incidents of impersonation or harassment by individuals claiming to be law enforcement officers. The council has also promised to increase security measures in the area to prevent such incidents in the future.
The suspects are currently at large, and their arrest is being sought by the authorities.
Key points
- The incident highlights the growing concern of individuals impersonating law enforcement officers in Kenya.
- The City Council of Nairobi has promised to take action against those involved and increase security measures in the area.
- The incident has sparked widespread outrage and concern over the safety of motorbike riders and other members of the public.
