Gang steals computers at IEBC offices

By Rushie Oudia and Maureen Odiwour

Kisumu, Kenya: Two computers containing vital information have been stolen from the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission offices in Kisumu.

The computers are believed to contain information on voter registration in Kisumu Central Constituency.

Kisumu East District Criminal Investigative Officer Henry Ndombi yesterday said the machines were stolen after employees left the offices at 10pm.

“Two desk top computers, two monitors and two Central Processing Units were stolen from the IEBC offices,” he said.

One of the IEBC officers said when he reported to work in the morning he opened the main office door but was unable to open the door to his office.

He looked through the window and saw two desktop computers missing.

The officer immediately called the Kisumu Central Returning Officer Peris Maiyo to inform her about the matter.

Mr Ndombi said they have launched investigation in to the matter but wondered how a robbery could take place in an office that is fully guarded by Administration Police.

“The officers on duty have also recorded statements with the police and are being investigated too,” said Ndombi.

When contacted by The Standard, IEBC Nyanza Central Regional coordinator Rasi Masudi said the computers do not contain any crucial details.

Masudi assured that the theft would not affect voting in the area and urged voters in the region to turn up early on March 4 to exercise their democratic right.

 “Come out and vote very early so that the exercise is completed in time,” he said.