Acting Inspector general of police Gilbert Masengeli failed to honour court orders for the fourth time.
Masengeli who was expected to provide an explanation on the whereabouts of three individuals abducted in Kitengela during the anti-government protests failed to appear before Justice Lawrence Mugambi.
The three: Jamil Longton, his brother Aslam Longton, and activist Bob Njagi were reportedly abducted by individuals believed to be police officers on August 19.
State counsel Wanjiku Mwangi representing Masengeli claimed he was on duty in Mombasa.
She sought permission for him to attend the session virtually, but this request was denied by the court.
Lawyer Rebbeca Omwenga said it was shocking that the officer who is supposed to uphold the rule of law is the one defying orders.
“We’re therefore praying that he be held in contempt, because as the ruling stated; the court has teeth and it can bite. It is high time that it bit and it bit hard” Omwenga said.
Even after Justice Mugambi adjourned the proceeding and ordered the acting IG to appear at 3pm, he defied.
“Is it difficult for someone to come and explain something grave as the matter before us? What is difficult?” Justice Mugambi posed.
The situation led to mounting frustration among the families and activists involved, culminating in a disruption during the court session as the judge was preparing a ruling. This disruption forcing yet another adjournment.
