Notorious cop arrested again while illegally directing traffic

A senior police officer was arrested on Monday this week, for allegedly soliciting a bribe and assaulting a colleague, after imposing himself as a traffic officer at Globe Roundabout in Nairobi.

The officer, identified as Inspector Guyo Dida, Deputy Officer Commanding Station (OCS) at Mavindini Police Station, Makueni, was arrested at 10 am following a complaint by a motorist.

According to a police report, Dida, in full uniform, stopped Magongo at the roundabout, accusing her of obstructing traffic. 

He then forced his way into her vehicle and directed her to drive to the police station.

While en route, the officer allegedly demanded a Sh15,000 bribe to secure her release. 

A concerned road user familiar with the officer’s behavior alerted Central Police Station Inspector Ambrose Kivuva, who quickly intercepted the vehicle.

The situation escalated when Dida confronted Kivuva for "interfering" with his activities. 

He resisted arrest, turned violent, and assaulted Kivuva, slapping him and causing injuries to his face and chest. The traffic cop also tore the upper part of Kivuva’s uniform during the altercation.

Members of the public and other officers intervened, restraining Dida and escorting him to Central Police Station.

The injured officer received treatment at a hospital in the city center, and was discharged in stable condition.

Police have launched an investigation, and Dida is expected to face charges of corruption, assault, and misconduct.

A report seen by The Standard revealed that Dida had been arrested in October 2023 for similar misconduct. 

In that incident, he was found conducting unauthorised traffic duties at Bunyala Roundabout in Makadara Sub-County while on leave from Mavindini Police Station.