In a shocking revelation, police officers serving at Mutomo GK Prison in Kitui County have raised serious concerns about the deteriorating conditions at the facility, calling it a ticking time bomb. Speaking on condition of anonymity for fear of retaliation, these officers have detailed a range of issues, from dilapidated infrastructure to mistreatment by the Officer in Charge.
Channel 15 News has obtained photos and videos that expose the crumbling state of the prison. The walls, riddled with cracks, appear on the verge of collapse, and essential operational equipment is either insufficient or non-functional. Officers report struggling to maintain security and provide even the most basic services, with resources spread dangerously thin.
The situation inside the prison is compounded by the officers’ own living conditions. The quarters where they are expected to sleep are cramped, poorly maintained, and offer no comfort or dignity. “We are expected to work under these conditions, yet we are the ones tasked with ensuring the safety and security of inmates,” one officer shared, emphasizing the physical and emotional toll these harsh conditions are taking on their morale.
Further complicating the issue is the alleged mistreatment by the Officer in Charge. According to the officers, voicing concerns has led to intimidation and fear of reprisals, leaving many staff members reluctant to speak out. “If you raise your voice, you become a target,” one officer said, describing the leadership at the facility as unresponsive to the growing frustrations of its staff.
The dire situation at Mutomo GK Prison is raising urgent questions about the broader state of Kenya’s correctional facilities. With inadequate infrastructure, low morale among staff, and a lack of accountability, the facility is on the brink of collapse. Officers are now calling on the government and relevant authorities to urgently address the situation, not just for the sake of the staff but also for the inmates whose safety and rehabilitation depend on the proper functioning of the facility.
Without immediate intervention, Mutomo GK Prison risks becoming a symbol of neglect within the nation’s prison system, with far-reaching consequences for the safety of those within and the security of the wider community.
