The National Police Service (NPS) is facing scrutiny after contradictory memos emerged regarding the travel status of Administration Police Constable Samuel Muchoki Ndirangu, popularly known as Samidoh. While one document confirms he was granted official clearance to travel to the U.S., another declares him a deserter for failing to report back to duty. The discrepancy has raised concerns over administrative coordination within the police force.
Approved Travel vs. Desertion Notice
A letter dated April 25, 2025, signed by the Office of the Inspector General, granted Samidoh permission to travel to the U.S. for a private visit from May 20 to June 9, 2025. The clearance, requested by the Deputy Inspector General of the Administration Police Service, stated that the trip would be self-funded.
However, on June 9 the very day he was supposed to return a police memo accused him of being Absent Without Official Leave (AWOL) since May 27, 2025. The notice classified him as a deserter effective June 6 and directed officers to visit his home in Nyandarua to locate him.
Administrative Confusion
The conflicting documents highlight a glaring lack of centralized record-keeping in the NPS. If Samidoh was officially cleared to travel, why was he later listed as a deserter? The inconsistency suggests either a miscommunication between police departments or an abrupt revocation of his travel privileges without proper notification.
Samidoh’s Cryptic Response
Amid the controversy, Samidoh has remained silent on the allegations but shared a cryptic Abraham Lincoln quote on social media: “Those who deny freedom to others deserve it not to themselves!” The post has fueled speculation over whether he is subtly addressing perceived injustice in his case.
Broader Implications
This incident underscores the need for streamlined communication in the police service, especially concerning officers’ international travel. Without proper documentation and coordination, such discrepancies risk damaging the reputation of the force and undermining trust in its administrative processes.
As the public awaits clarification, questions remain: Was Samidoh’s clearance revoked? Did he overstay his approved leave? Until the NPS provides a clear explanation, the confusion will persist, leaving room for doubt over the handling of officers’ rights and duties.
For now, all eyes are on the police leadership to resolve the contradiction—and on Samidoh to break his silence.
