A senior police officer in Uasin Gishu County has reportedly fallen victim to a suspected “mchele” incident after meeting a woman at a club in Kapseret over the weekend.
The officer, identified as Chief Inspector Asbel Kiprop, allegedly met the woman while he was at the entertainment spot watching football matches on Friday afternoon.
According to the report, the two reportedly spent time together at the club and shared drinks before later leaving the venue for a nearby guest house. Watch Video
An undisclosed amount of money was also reportedly taken from him during the incident.
Kiprop, who is a former three-time 1500m world champion, is said to have reported the matter to police the following afternoon and recorded a formal statement regarding what had happened.
Police Launch Search for Suspect
Police in Uasin Gishu have since launched a search for the woman suspected of being behind the incident.
Area Police Commander Sephania Kamoren confirmed that officers were pursuing the suspect while commending Kiprop for speaking openly about his experience.
Kamoren noted that it was not easy for a senior officer of Kiprop’s standing to publicly discuss such an embarrassing experience, adding that his decision to come forward could serve as a warning to other people.
The police commander urged young people to remain cautious when socialising, particularly in entertainment establishments where they may meet strangers.
Kiprop’s experience has also renewed concerns over alleged “mchele” robberies, where victims are reportedly drugged after their drinks are tampered with before their belongings are stolen.
Police have encouraged members of the public who experience similar incidents to report them instead of remaining silent because of embarrassment.
Kiprop joined the Kenya Police Service after retiring from athletics and rose through the ranks to become a Chief Inspector.