Kiambu Senator Karungo Thangwa has proposed the branding of vehicles belonging to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI).
Karungo, in a statement via his X account on Friday, December 6, 2024, disclosed that he seeks to introduce amendments to the National Police Service, Traffic, and the Public Order Act to promote transparency in the security forces.
The amendments 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.
“I 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,” Karungo stated.
Karungo on DCI vehicles
According to the vocal senator, the branding of the vehicles belonging to the investigative agents will not only be beneficial to the officers but also to the general public.
Emphasizing its importance, Karungo said that branding vehicles will enhance the credibility and authority of the officers by ensuring they are easily identifiable during operations and also earn public trust.
In addition, he noted that it will also reduce the risk of criminals impersonating law enforcers.
“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. It reduces the risk of criminals impersonating law enforcement and strengthens public cooperation.
“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,” Karungo stated.
He went on to say that the move would restore the faith of the public noting that when one is stopped by a branded vehicle they will confidently comply with officers of the law.
“When stopped by a branded vehicle or Subaru, you will confidently comply with officers of the law. But when approached by an unmarked Subaru, do everything you can to stay safe because those are likely thugs,” he added.
His sentiments come a day after he together with former MP of Limuru Peter Mwathi were probed by the DCI over funeral chaos in Limuru.
THE DCI SUBARUS/VEHICLES SHOULD BE BRANDED
— Sen. Karungo wa Thang'wa (@KarungoThangwa) December 6, 2024
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. The officers were quick to clarify that not… pic.twitter.com/s5dD4We6Tx
