Inside Plan to Rebrand DCI Subarus
Kiambu Senator Karungo Wa Thang’wa has called for the branding of Subaru vehicles used by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) to aid in apprehending criminals.
Senator Thang’wa argued on Friday, December 6, that branding DCI Subarus would boost the detectives’ credibility and ensure they are easily identifiable, thereby fostering public trust during operations.
He emphasized that visible branding would deter criminals from impersonating law enforcement, enhance public cooperation, and ensure civilian safety. “Branded vehicles reassure the public, promote transparency, and protect civilians from imposters,” Thang’wa noted.
The Senator stated that this initiative aligns with global best practices for law enforcement and serves as a symbol of accountability for DCI officers.
Karungo revealed plans to propose a bill that would amend the National Police Service Act, 2011, the Traffic Act, and the Public Order Act.
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The amendments aim to mandate the branding of all DCI operational vehicles with logos, contact information, and unique identification numbers.
“This way, the public can confidently comply when approached by branded vehicles while taking precautions against unmarked Subarus,” the Senator explained.
The move, he said, was driven by a surge in abduction cases in Kenya, often linked to unmarked Subaru vehicles allegedly used by armed men.
Karungo disclosed discussions with DCI officers, who clarified that not all Subarus were owned by detectives and those in use were strictly for arrests, not abductions.
“This prompted me to consider how to support their work professionally while fostering public trust through the use of clearly branded vehicles,” he added.
The Senator proposed these changes following a meeting with detectives at the DCI Headquarters on Kiambu Road. He visited after being summoned regarding recent violence at a funeral in Limuru attended by Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
Although Karungo honored the summon and underwent a ten-hour grilling, he refused to provide details about the incident to the officers.
Inside Plan to Rebrand DCI Subarus
