US diplomat arrested in Nairobi for brandishing gun at civilian

The US diplomat's car at the Central Police Station in Nairobi.

A US diplomat was Sunday arrested after brandishing a gun at a civilian following an accident in Nairobi.

The diplomat was driving a four-wheel drive car bearing US embassy registration numbers when he was involved in a non-injury accident along Lusaka Road.

When the motorist involved in the accident tried to seek explanation from him, he allegedly brandished a gun before he drove off.

The vehicle registration numbers 29CD701K was circulated in the police communication channel before he was stopped along University Way by traffic personnel.

 “We are talking to a foreigner involved in a traffic incident and there are other claims against him but no injury was reported,” said Central OCPD Robinson Thuku.

He was taken to the traffic office where he was grilled. His Ceska pistol was taken away for further analysis.

Security officials from the KK security, which protects the embassy were at the station to help him get bail.

His identity was not immediately revealed, but police confirmed he is a US diplomat. The diplomat’s vehicle was also detained at the Central Police station.

A US embassy official said they were offering him consular assistance.

“We are aware of a minor traffic accident involving an employee of the US embassy and we are cooperating fully with authorities. Contrary to some reports, at no time did the employee brandish or fire a weapon,” a statement from the public affairs office in US embassy in Nairobi said.

There has been a surge on gun misuse in Nairobi lately, with several licensed gun holders being arrested and charged in court.