Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s ally and a critic of the Kenya Kwanza regime has proposed changes to the National Police Act and the Traffic Act to address the issue of the Directorate of Criminal Investigations’ (DCI) vehicles popularly known as Subarus. Kiambu Senator Karungo Thang’wa made the remarks hours after detectives grilled him.
In a statement on Friday, December 6, Karungo stated that the DCI Subarus should be branded.
“After engaging in some idle talk with DCI officers for almost 10 hours yesterday, I asked why they torment Kenyans by following them or allegedly abducting them using unmarked Subaru vehicles,” Karingo said.
“The officers were quick to clarify that not all Subarus belong to the DCI and that they never abduct but arrest. (Of course, I could sense the mischief in their faces.).”
Why Karungo Wants DCI Subarus Branded
The lawmaker stated that this got him thinking about ways to ‘help’ them execute their mandate professionally while earning public trust—by ensuring they move around in clearly branded vehicles!
He added that branding DCI vehicles offers numerous benefits to both the officers and the public.
“For officers, it enhances their credibility and authority, ensuring they are easily identifiable and fostering trust during operations,” he said.
“It reduces the risk of criminals impersonating law enforcement and strengthens public cooperation. “
He went on to mention that for the public, branded vehicles provide reassurance, promote transparency, and protect civilians from imposters.
“Furthermore, it aligns with global best practices for law enforcement visibility and accountability.
Also Read: Limuru Funeral: Former MP Speaks on His Abduction, Reveals What Transpired Before the Melee
Lawmaker on Amendment on National Police Act
To achieve this, Karungo said that he will be seeking to amend the National Police Service Act, 2011, the Traffic Act, and the Public Order Act.
These amendments will include provisions to compel all DCI operational vehicles to be visibly branded with the DCI logo, contact details, and unique identification numbers, ensuring consistency and transparency.
“That way, when stopped by a branded vehicle or Subaru, you will confidently comply with officers of the law,” he affirmed.
“But when approached by an unmarked Subaru, do everything you can to stay safe—because those are likely thugs.”
Karungo made these proposals in the wake of DCI officers in unmarked Subarus allegedly arresting Kenyans, with some cases being mistaken for abductions.
Also Read: Gachagua’s Supporters Overpower Police, DCI Issues Fresh Summons
Former Limuru Member of Parliament Peter Mwathi was also allegedly abducted by police officers in unmarked Subarus following a chaotic funeral in Ngarariga, Limuru, Kiambu County.
Mwathi mentioned that he was sandwiched between the officers, all of whom were hooded and wearing masks, with one of them also wearing a cap.
Court Ruling on Police Concealing Identity
This came after an August ruling by the High Court prohibiting police officers from concealing their identities while carrying out their security duties.
The court directed the Inspector General of Police to ensure that all uniformed officers identify themselves when interacting with the public by displaying their nametags or identifiable service numbers.
Additionally, the ruling barred police from hiding the identification, registration, or markings of vehicles used during interactions with individuals at public gatherings or protests.
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