The Private Security Regulatory Authority (PSRA) has awarded Vincent Chepkwony, a Java Guard employed by Hatari Security Group.
Chepkwony received the award for his exceptional bravery at Java House on Kimathi Street, Nairobi during the anti-finance bill protests.
PSRA said Chepkwony was awarded the highest honour for a private security officer in Kenya for his courage, selfless patriotism and unwavering commitment to protecting lives and property.
“Pursuant to Section 9 (I) of the Private Security Regulation Act, this Letter of Appreciation is awarded to Mr. Vincent Chepkwony. The commendation is in recognition of your remarkable dedication and service in the Private Security Industry in the country,” reads the notice in part.
“Mr. Chepkwony has subsequently been awarded the highest commendation and recognition for a Private Security Officer in Kenya for his bravery and unwavering commitment to duty.”
PSRA Awards Vincent Chepkwony
Vincent got fired for sheltering and shielding members of the public from harm during demonstrations on June 18, 2024.
However, PSRA said Chepkwony’s actions exemplify the dedication, selfless patriotism and courage exhibited by security personnel in safeguarding life and property.
“Your unwavering commitment, exceptional professionalism, and strict compliance with the legal standards have been instrumental in promoting the development of the Private Security Industry in Kenya,” the statement further read.
The PSRA also directed Hatari Security Company to immediately reinstate Vincent Chepkwony and promote him to a higher rank.
Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Java Guard Who Shielded Protestors Speaks After Reports That He Was Fired
“After a comprehensive review, the Authority firmly concluded that Mr. Chepkwony’s actions were heroic, patriotic and commendable and therefore warranted a promotion and not a dismissal from duty,” PSRA said.
“Consequently, the Authority directed Hatari Security Limited to reinstate Mr. Vincent Chepkwony to his role as a security guard with immediate effect.”
PSRA CEO Fazul Mahamed stated that they convened a consultative meeting on Tuesday, July 9 following public concerns over Chepkwony’s dismissal by Hatari Security.
Also Read: Protesters Invade Governor’s Office as Anti-Govt Protests Wave Continues
Chepkwony Dismisses Allegations of Missing Work
Elisha Kirui, a controller from the company alleged that Vincent had been absent from work since 25th June and only reported on Monday, July 8.
However, while speaking to The Kenya Times on Tuesday, July 9, Vincent refuted the claims saying that he had not boycotted his work but was on a two-week leave that started on June 24 and ended on Sunday, July 7.
“I didn’t refuse to report to work; I was on leave that started on June 24, which was supposed to end on July 7, and I was scheduled to return to work on July 8,” he explained.
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