Man Arrested for Running Illegal Police Station for Six Months

A Kenyan man, Collins Letting, has been arrested for setting up and operating an illegal police station for six months in Uasin Gishu County.

The facility, which was painted in police colours, had detention cells and an office and was used to police the area. Reports indicate that Letting particularly targeted individuals with unlicensed timber from Cengalo Forest.

Despite operating for months, even the area chief was unaware that the station was unauthorised. It was only discovered on March 8, 2025, when police officers filed a report at Kamuyu Police Post.

“We were surprised to find a fully set-up facility painted in police colours, yet no authorisation had been granted for such an establishment in this area,” the police report stated.

According to the National Police Service Act 2014, only the Inspector-General of Police can establish police stations and patrol bases in Kenya.

Letting, described as a trader and political activist, had previous legal issues and was reportedly close to a former MP, which led locals to believe that the station was legitimate.

Residents, now shocked, have expressed concerns over their security and the implications of such an operation.

Uasin Gishu County police commander, Benjamin Mwanthi, confirmed that investigations are ongoing to determine Letting’s motives.

“A team of security officers from the area are expected to visit the location of the said fake police station to get more information. Right now, I have no further details,” Mr Mwanthi said.

Security officers from Kesses sub-county will visit the site and meet locals to gather more information. Mwanthi assured residents that appropriate action will be taken to ensure their safety.

Meanwhile, Inspector General of Police, Douglas Kanja, condemned the illegal police post in Kesses, Uasin Gishu County.

Speaking in Mombasa at the opening of the newly built Mbaraki Police Station, Kanja stated that due process was not followed in establishing the Kesses police station and that authorities are looking into the matter.