Residents from areas like Kibra, Westlands, Kilimani and Dagoretti have asked the Interior Ministry, led by CS Kipchumba Murkomen, to stop the proposed degazettement of Capitol Hill Police Station.
The residents, through the Upper Hill District Association, have given the ministry 14 days to reverse the decision or take legal action for any damage that may arise from closing the station.
The association’s chairperson, Justus Mungai, said the station is important for maintaining order and safety in the Upper Hill region, serving over 6,000 people.
According to Mungai, the police station helps police respond quickly to any emergency since it serves major institutions including hospitals, courts, banks, law firms and embassies.
It was alleged that once closed, the police station could result in an upsurge in cases of insecurity since it would result in delayed response from the police when an emergency occurs.
The association also added that it could be hard to reclaim the site for security purposes after it has been vacated.
They say they will not hesitate to seek the intervention of the law if they do not get their demands met.
The fears follow the decision by the government to degazette the Capitol Hill Police Station. After the announcement was made, over 50 police officers were relocated from the station.
The government had also requested citizens and investigators to help clear out any property or exhibits left at the station.
It is said that the government’s decision is in line with its efforts towards restructuring the police services in Nairobi.
