Mt Kenya worshippers undergo search

By Job Weru

A religious expedition around Mt Kenya was disrupted when armed police officers subjected the participants to extensive security screening.

Scores of Gikuyu and Mumbi Cultural Museum traditionalists who set for the more than 300km drive around Mt Kenya were shocked to find the Rapid Deployment Unit officers at Samson’s Corner in Kirinyaga.

The faithful were going round Mt Kenya, where they held prayers for the country. The police pitched camp at Samson’s corner, where they mounted impromptu checks. The heavily armed officers searched vehicles and their occupants.

An officer, who sought anonymity, said they were under instructions to look for suspicious paraphernalia.

"We are looking for anything that could be used in oathing by the Mungiki sect," said the officer.

No arrest

However, the motorists were released later, with no arrest or any suspect recovery being made.

Mr Harrison Kinuthia, who drove alongside a friend from Nairobi, termed the operation intimidating, even after Internal Security PS Francis Kimemia granted the worshippers permission.

"We came to pray and not to plan illegalities," said Kinuthia.

The group drove in public service and private vehicles, which had light blue ribbons, making it possible for the police to identify them.

Ms Ruth Wanjiku said the Government licensed the prayers, adding they were meant for all communities. Many participants called The Standard later in the day and confirmed they were about to complete the circuit.