Panic in Gilgil over alleged water tanks poisoning by terrorists

By Antony Gitonga

NAIVASHA, KENYA: There was a moment of panic in Gilgil town after reports went round that water from the main tanks have been poisoned by terrorists.

The move saw senior government officers including those from Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) move in to investigate the allegations.

Soon after the report water supply to the town and its suburbs was disconnected to pave way for tests.

The town is home to hundreds of KDF officers who fall under the Western Command and incidentally the poisoning reports pointed to a tank next to Kenyatta barracks.

However the Rift Valley Water Services Board moved in to allay the fears saying that biological and chemical tests conducted on the water were negative.

The board communication manager Carlos Cheluget said that they had intensified security and vigilance in all water points in the area.

He said that two people of Somali origin had been spotted near the water tank on Sunday and the locals informed the police.

"There were allegations that water supplied to Gilgil had been poisoned but we have conducted tests and the water is safe,” he said on phone.

Gilgil MP Nderitu Mathenge who led government officers to the water tank expressed his concern over security issues.

Mathenge was quick to note that the water was safe after the tests but called for action on the status of the water treatment plant and tanks.

“Though the water has been confirmed safe there is no fence at the treatment plant while some covers are missing exposing the water to contamination,” he said.

The MP said that there was need to secure the water installations as they supplied water to Nakuru town and even the nearby army barracks.

“Water is a very sensitive commodity and there is need to make sure that the sources and treatment plants are protected,” he said.

Gilgil OCPD Serah Koki said that they had heightened their patrols in the town following the reports.

“Though the reports were rumors we have increased our patrols and we ask members of the public to continue working with us,” he said.