The Kenya Police is dismayed by the conduct and language used by a World Bank official, Mr. Colin Bruce following a traffic violation on the highway. It is unfortunate that instead of cooperating with the Police, he chose to cause a scene by the roadside and proceeded to insult the Kenya Police. The reason for his displeasure was that the Police had the audacity to stop his car.

The incident occurred near Kabete yesterday 10th August, 2006 during a routine traffic check when Police stopped a vehicle in which Mr. Colin Bruce was traveling for exceeding the legal speed limit. The vehicle was driven at 116 km per hour instead of the 50 km legal limit. Police Officers asked the driver to produce his driver’s license and present the keys so that appropriate action can be taken. The driver was also asked to deposit a cash bail of Kshs 4000 with a view to appearing before court. Unfortunately, Mr. Colin Bruce alighted and proceeded to insult the Police Officers, accusing them of corruption despite the presence of many other motorists who had been stopped for the same offence. He went further to incite other motorists not to pay the cash bail.

The Kenya Police wishes to reiterate that obedience of the law is not optional, it is a mandatory requirement. Mr. Colin Bruce should not be under the illusion that World Bank officials are exempt from observing Kenyan laws.

The enforcement of traffic laws is a universal requirement applicable as much in Kenya as in his own country. The Kenya Police Force does not enforce the law as a public relations exercise but as an obligatory legal requirement. Calling the press or KACC to scenes of crime will not deter the Police from enforcing the law.

While all citizens and residents have the right to express any complaints against the Police, the use of abusive language is unfortunate and in bad taste. Indeed, it is expected that persons occupying senior positions will lead by example.

The Commissioner of Police commends the five Traffic Police officers under Corporal Patrick Wanyonyi for their professionalism in the face of blatant provocation and encourages all traffic officers to enforce the law firmly and fairly regardless of the status of those involved. At no time were Police Officers disrespectful to Mr. Colin Bruce. Indeed evidence captured on video shows him insulting the Kenya Police.

Mr. Colin Bruce’s driver will be prosecuted before a competent court in accordance with the law. The Kenya Police will review the available evidence with a view of taking further action as deemed appropriate.

(GIDEON M. KIBUNJAH)
FOR: COMMISSIONER OF POLICE

11th August, 2006