Iteere allays fears over Prime Minister’s security

Police Commissioner Mathew Iteere on February 23, 2011 revealed that extra security had been accorded to Prime Minister Raila Odinga. Photo/FILE 

By NATION REPORTERPosted Wednesday, February 23 2011 at 22:11

Police have revealed the extra security accorded Prime Minister Raila Odinga at a time his party alleges he is under threat of foreign mercenaries.

While a security team is assigned to travel with him throughout the country, police commanders in the districts must deploy reinforcement whenever the PM is visiting their areas.

Police Commissioner Mathew Iteere made the disclosure on Wednesday, a day after ordering investigations into the claims by some ODM MPs that the Premier is being stalked. (Read: ODM leaders targeted by Israeli goons, MPs claim)

At the same time, the police boss described as “wanting,” a statement recorded by ODM nominated MP Millie Odhiambo over the mercenaries matter.

He said another statement that also claimed she was robbed by armed gangsters last Saturday, and that the government sought to withdraw her police escort did not “add up.”

The police raised several issues including that Ms Odhiambo refused to reveal who had given her the information.

The police also asked why she involved armed escort all day only to venture out in the night unaccompanied (see chronology) though the officers were ready to help.

Detectives also said the MP initially claimed she had been robbed of her phone only to be found with it moments later.

On Mr Odinga’s security, the police chief gave further instructions: “OCPDs (Division commanders) are also directed to retain a reasonable presence until he leaves the area.”

He added: “I’ve personally reviewed security personnel attached to the Prime Minister and I’m satisfied with it.”

ODM parliamentary group secretary Ababu Namwamba on Tuesday made the threat claims after a meeting at the party’s headquarters.

Nominated MP Odhiambo had made similar remarks on Saturday, saying that National Assembly Speaker Kenneth Marende, MP Olago Aluoch, Mr Namwamba and herself were being targeted. (Read: House teams split over Kibaki list)

So far, Mr Iteere said, investigations had not proven the presence of mercenaries.

Earlier, Mr Odinga’s chief bodyguard was summoned to police headquarters over the matter.

The Chief Inspector of Police was asked to record a statement with his seniors, giving his understanding of the allegations made by some ODM MPs.

Besides, he was required to give his assessment on Mr Odinga’s security. It was not clear what he reported to his seniors.