Kin demand release of Patel coffee farm guard

Residents view a section of Solai Patel dam after the tragedy. [Photo: Courtesy]

The family of a security guard at the Patel Coffee farm in Solai, who was arrested last week, is demanding his release.

The family claims Nasigara Lelekong, 53, was picked up by detectives from DCI headquarters and driven to Nairobi, but police have kept them in the dark over details surrounding his arrest.

Margret Wairimu, Mr Lelekong’s wife, told The Standard she learnt of the arrest at around 8pm, last Wednesday.

“I received a phone call from my husband saying he was picked as a witness on the tragedy and had been taken to Nakuru. The officers have been taking us round in circles ever since,” said Wairimu.

She added that the officers later called and informed her that Lelekong had been moved to CID headquarters in Nairobi.

Ms Wairimu said she tried to reach Lelekong on Thursday morning, but the call was picked by CID officers, who told her he was asleep. The mobile phone was later switched off.

“I am worried because communication from my husband and DCI officers is scanty,” she said.

Rongai police boss Japheth Kioko confirmed the arrest, but did not give details.

“I am aware about the matter, I am, however, not in a position to disclose more information,” he said.

He referred The Standard to his deputy Sarah Chumo, but she was not immediately available for comment.

The Standard further tried to reach the Rift Valley Criminal Investigating Officer Gideon Kibunja but he said he could not comment