DPP orders arrest of killer Solai Dam owner

Director of Public Prosecutions Noordin Haji has ordered for the arrest of the owner of the Solai Dam which burst its banks and killed over 45 people in May this year.

The DPP on Wednesday directed that Mr. Perry Mansukh Kansagara be arrested alongside Vinoj Jaya Kumar, the General Manager of the Patel Coffee Estates Limited.

Mr. Haji has also ordered the arrest of officers from the Water Resources Management Authority (WARMA), National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) and county government who were entrusted with the mandate of ensuring the safety of the dams.

“Upon review of the file, I have established that there is criminal culpability on the part of WARMA-(WRA), NEMA and county government officials entrusted with the mandate of inspection, monitoring and control of the safety of the dams,” said the DPP.

The other officials include; Winnie Muthoni Mutisya (Water Rights Officer-WRA), Tomkin Odo Odhiambo (Sub-Regional Manager- WRA), Jacinta Were (Assistant Technical Manager- WRA), Williec Omondi Were (NEMA, Nakuru County Director),  Lynnete Jepchirchir Cheruiyot (NEMA officer, Nakuru County), Johnson Kamau Njuguna (Nakuru County Water Director) and Julius Kavita (Sub-county Administrator).

“There was failure by the owners, NEMA and WRA to ensure environmental compliance,” said Mr. Haji, who also noted that the permit for the dam was irregularly issued.

According to the DPP, investigations revealed that the construction of the dam was done by unqualified staff using the farm equipment leading to construction and design flaws.

He further noted that the Solai Dam waters were being supplied by the Watkins Stream, which was abstracted completely by the owner.

The DPP wants the said officials charged with manslaughter, neglect of official duty and failing to prepare an environment impact assessment report.