Detectives in Nairobi County are intensifying their search for Boniface Nyamu, a senior county official who has gone into hiding after being accused of extorting bribes from bar and nightclub owners.
Nyamu, who serves as the Chief Officer for Mobility, has been at the center of a bribery scandal that has frustrated local business owners, particularly those in the city’s vibrant nightlife sector.
These owners allege that Nyamu has been making illegal demands for bribes in exchange for allowing their establishments to operate without harassment from county officials.
After the allegations surfaced, Nyamu switched off his phone and disappeared, reportedly fearing arrest as part of Kamata Kamata Friday, a police operation that targets high-profile suspects ahead of the weekend.
The accusations against Nyamu have ignited widespread outrage, particularly among members of the business community who say that his actions are emblematic of the deep-rooted corruption plaguing the county.
Owners of bars and nightclubs claim that Nyamu and his associates have been making relentless demands for bribes, often threatening to shut down their businesses if they fail to comply.
The extortion racket has had a chilling effect on many establishments, with some owners choosing to close shop rather than continue paying the exorbitant bribes.
According to reports, the bribes were not limited to the entertainment sector alone.
Public transport operators in Nairobi have also accused Nyamu of running a similar racket, where matatu operators are forced to pay illegal fees at key transit hubs, including areas like Tom Mboya and Ronald Ngala streets.
These allegations have further undermined the credibility of the county administration, as Nyamu is believed to be enjoying protection from powerful political figures, including members of the ruling party.
Despite this, pressure has been mounting on authorities to take decisive action against him.
Nyamu’s disappearance follows the growing practice of Kamata Kamata Fridays, a day when law enforcement officers round up individuals suspected of engaging in criminal activities, particularly corruption.
Fearing that he would be next in line for arrest, Nyamu has gone off the radar.
The search for him is now a priority for the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), which has vowed to pursue him until he is brought to justice.
Local business owners and residents are calling for broader reforms to tackle corruption in Nairobi County, which they argue has reached a top levels.
In response to the public outcry, the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has launched a probe into Nyamu’s activities.
However, there is growing concern that his political connections might make it difficult to hold him accountable.
Nairobi’s future now hangs in the balance as the city’s leadership faces increasing pressure to address the corruption that has hampered efforts to restore order and promote economic growth.
Many are left wondering whether justice will prevail or if this is just another case of impunity in Kenya’s political scenes.
For now, the search continues, and the people of Nairobi wait anxiously to see whether the law will finally catch up with one of the city’s most notorious officials.
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