Eldoret Traders Rally Behind OCS Lenaso, Dismiss Kimutai Kirui’s Transfer Demands as Misguided
“We often meet the OCS in person while he is patrolling the city. He has given us his phone number, and today we freely report any activities likely to breach peace and security. The response is immediate — something that never used to happen before.”
A hawker walks past a police officer on routine patrol in the Mangula area of Eldoret CBD, reflecting heightened security presence and renewed order in the once-notorious hotspot.
Eldoret residents and traders have strongly defended the Officer Commanding Station (OCS) at Eldoret Central Police Station, Chief Inspector James Lenaso, crediting his leadership with restoring order and significantly reducing crime within the Central Business District (CBD).
The show of support follows calls by Eldoret-based human rights activist Kimutai Kirui and a section of lobby groups demanding the transfer of the OCS. However, traders interviewed by Hubzmedia maintain that such calls do not reflect the views of the majority of business operators and city residents.
Traders Report Reduced Phone Snatching, Cartel Activity
A Hubzmedia investigation established that streets previously notorious for mobile phone snatching and organized theft rings have recorded a marked decline in criminal activity under Chief Inspector Lenaso’s tenure.
Moris Wafula, a trader operating along the Eagles Hardware route, said the security transformation has been unprecedented.
“In the past we worked closely with other OCSs, but it is under Lenaso’s watch that we have truly benefited as traders and business people through enhanced and well-coordinated security,” Wafula said.
“We often meet the OCS in person while he is patrolling the city. He has given us his phone number, and today we freely report any activities likely to breach peace and security. The response is immediate — something that never used to happen before.”
David Otineo, chairman of boda boda operators who conduct business at night within the CBD, echoed the sentiments, noting that intensified night patrols have created a safer operating environment.
“The city has been safe throughout the night, enabling us to conduct our businesses with ease due to enhanced patrols,” Otieno said.
“Calls for the transfer of the OCS are not a reflection of traders and residents. Those pushing that narrative may not be aware of the security improvements under Chief Inspector Lenaso.”
Joseph Nandwa, chairman of a matatu SACCO operating at the main stage, also praised the current security framework, saying improved coordination between transport operators and police has minimized cases of theft targeting passengers.
“We have seen a drastic reduction in phone snatching around the main stage. Our members now operate in a more secure environment, and passengers feel safer,” Nandwa stated.
The three leaders jointly urged Kimutai Kirui and other lobbyists to desist from demanding the OCS’s transfer, arguing that stability within the CBD should not be disrupted.
Mangula and Petrisha Areas See Turnaround
Residents also cited notable improvements in the once-notorious Mangula area behind Asis Hotel, which had long been associated with drug peddling and petty crime.
“You can now see police officers patrolling the area regularly. We no longer see drug peddlers along this stretch thanks to the current security arrangements,” one trader confirmed.
Hubzmedia established that the area is now significantly cleaner and largely free of idlers and street-connected families, many of whom have reportedly been relocated to children’s rescue centres or reintegrated with their families.
County Commander Confirms Crime Reduction
Uasin Gishu County Police Commander Benjamin Mwanthi confirmed that crime levels within Eldoret CBD have dropped significantly under Chief Inspector Lenaso’s leadership.
“Chief Inspector James Lenaso has coordinated comprehensive security plans for the city. This has led to enhanced security and a conducive working environment for traders and residents,” Mwanthi said.
He revealed that police had dismantled a major phone theft syndicate operating around Petrisha Building.
“We have managed to dismantle the phone racket cartel that used to operate around Petrisha Building. Seven suspects who were involved in flashing stolen mobile phones and handling stolen electronic goods are currently in court facing various charges,” Mwanthi stated.
Investigations established that one shop was being used as a hub for a phone theft syndicate extending as far as Trans-Nzoia County.
“In a recent case, we arrested individuals who snatched mobile phones in the Kidiwa area. They were tracked and apprehended in Kisumu. Our counterparts there are handling one suspect who remains under police surveillance,” he added.
According to Mwanthi, these operations have also contributed to a sharp decline in house break-ins.
“Residents now enjoy their nights. We have dismantled that criminal market, and that job was well coordinated by Chief Inspector Lenaso,” he said.
Former MCA Attack Under Investigation
Addressing the recent attack on former Uasin Gishu MCA Edwin Misoi, the County Commander confirmed that two suspects had been arrested and arraigned in court, with investigations ongoing.
“Two suspects in the Edwin Misoi matter have already been charged.” Mwanthi disclosed.
He assured residents that no individual is above the law, regardless of political affiliation.
“I am urging the youth not to be misled into acts of lawlessness. We will arrest and prosecute anyone found contravening the law,” he warned.
Call for Public Cooperation
While defending Chief Inspector Lenaso as one of the most diligent OCS officers in the county — particularly in dismantling drug cartels and restoring law and order — Mwanthi urged residents to cooperate with police rather than participate in demonstrations calling for his transfer.
“Instead of demonstrations, residents should furnish the police with information that can assist investigating officers. Security is a shared responsibility,” he said.
For now, a cross-section of Eldoret traders and transport sector leaders insist that the security gains realized under the current OCS should be safeguarded, arguing that improved policing coordination and sustained patrol operations have directly strengthened business confidence within the CBD.
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