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Affordable Healthcare for Kenyans

                                                 A Path Toward Universal Access

A fundamental entitlement that many Kenyans still struggle to achieve is access to reasonably priced healthcare. Inequalities in access and affordability still exist in the healthcare industry, notwithstanding improvements. This article examines the obstacles to providing all Kenyans with access to inexpensive healthcare as well as possible solutions.

The state of healthcare today

A combination of state and private services make up Kenya’s healthcare system. Public hospitals and clinics, which are frequently overcrowded and underfunded, are how the government delivers healthcare. However, many Kenyans, especially those living in rural areas or in lower income levels, cannot afford the higher costs of private healthcare institutions, which provide superior services.

Obstacles to Accessible Healthcare

• High Out-of-Pocket Expenses: A large number of Kenyans pay for their medical treatment out of pocket, which can put a strain on their finances. Since a large percentage of people are impoverished, unforeseen medical costs can be disastrous.

• Limited Coverage: The National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) attempts to offer a safety net, but coverage is frequently insufficient. The majority of Kenyans do not have private health insurance, and those who do may discover that their plans do not cover necessary prescription drugs or services.

• Infrastructure Deficiencies: Drugs, medical supplies, and qualified staff are just a few of the resources that public health institutions frequently lack. This may discourage people from getting care when they need it.

Improvement Initiatives by the Government

The Kenyan government has taken action to increase access to healthcare after realizing the need for reform:

• Universal Health Coverage (UHC): By enhancing healthcare delivery and growing the NHIF, the government has pledged to achieve UHC. The goal of this program is to guarantee that no Kenyan has financial difficulty while obtaining necessary health care.

• Community Health Strategy: The government hopes to address underprivileged populations by bolstering community health services and encouraging health education and preventive care.

• Public-Private Partnerships: Partnerships between the public and commercial sectors can improve the quality of healthcare. The government may enhance infrastructure and access to high-quality services by utilising private investment.

Technology’s Function

Technology is essential to lowering the cost and increasing access to healthcare:

• Telemedicine: Kenyans can now obtain medical consultations remotely thanks to the growth of telehealth services, which eliminates the need for travel and the related expenses. Those who live in rural locations will particularly benefit from this.

• Mobile Health Solutions: By offering prescription reminders, appointment scheduling, and health service information, health apps and SMS services can make healthcare management easier.

• Data management: Better health information systems can increase hospital efficiency, lower errors, and streamline patient care.

Education and Community Involvement

Involving the community is crucial to obtaining cheap healthcare. Campaigns for health education can encourage early intervention and preventative care by enabling people to make knowledgeable decisions about their health. Outreach and support for healthcare projects can also be improved by involving local leaders and organizations.

The Path Ahead

Affordable healthcare must be available to all Kenyans, necessitating a multipronged approach:

• More Funding: It is essential that the government provide enough money for healthcare services. This entails spending money on personnel, infrastructure, and necessary medications.

• Policy Reforms: Comprehensive changes to health policy can guarantee that healthcare stays a top priority on the national agenda, enhance coverage, and streamline services.

• Public Awareness: One way to close the access gap to care is to increase public knowledge of the services that are available and to promote involvement in health initiatives.

In conclusion

For Kenyans’ general well-being and the nation’s overall progress, access to affordable healthcare is crucial. There are still obstacles to overcome, but the way forward is obvious. Kenya may make progress towards a universally accessible and reasonably priced healthcare system by emphasizing universal health coverage, utilising technology, and encouraging community involvement. A healthier and more just future is worth seeking, even though the path may be difficult.

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Luxury vs. Safety

Why Modern Range Rovers and Other Advanced Automobiles Are Getting Into Deadly Accidents

New Range Rovers and other high-tech cars have come to represent luxury, style, and state-of-the-art technology in recent years. But a concerning pattern has emerged: these sophisticated vehicles are becoming more frequently engaged in fatal collisions. This strange circumstance calls into question the effectiveness and safety of contemporary car systems. We need to investigate a number of contributing aspects in order to comprehend why high-tech vehicles which are frequently thought to be safer are involved in major accidents.

1. Excessive Dependency on Advanced Driver Assistance System Utilization

Technology Dependency

Modern vehicles, including new Range Rovers, are equipped with Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. While these systems are designed to enhance safety, over-reliance on them can be problematic. Drivers may become complacent, assuming that the vehicle will handle all safety aspects, which can lead to lapses in attention and slower reaction times.

System Restrictions

Even with their achievements, ADAS technologies are not without restrictions. When faced with unforeseen challenges, inclement weather, or intricate traffic scenarios, they could find it difficult. The risk of accidents increases if drivers become unduly reliant on these technologies since they might not be ready to take over when needed.

2. Performance at High Speeds and Aggressive Driving

Enhanced Power and Speed

Modern Range Rovers and other high-tech vehicles frequently have remarkable power and speed. Although these features make driving more enjoyable, they may also incite violent driving. It may be tempting for drivers to push their cars to the limit, which could result in unsafe maneuver’s and high-speed crashes that endanger everyone’s safety.

Control and Steadiness

Although better handling and stability are built into advanced cars, these features may offer drivers a mistaken sense of invulnerability. This may lead to unsafe driving behaviors, like cutting bends too fast or pursuing objects at a high speed, which may cause serious accidents.

3. Diversion from In-Car Electronics

Informational Display Systems

Substantial infotainment systems, which come with many amenities including entertainment and navigation, are standard on modern cars. Although these devices can improve driving, there is a chance that they will cause distractions. Distracted drivers are more likely to be involved in accidents because they may be less focused on the road when making changes to settings or using in-car applications.

Interfaces with touchscreens

Drivers must explore menus and selections on touchscreen displays seen in many new high-tech cars, such as Range Rovers. Driver attention and accident risk are raised by these interfaces because they might be less user-friendly and more distracting than physical controls.

4. Insufficient Instruction and Training for Drivers

Acquaintance with Technology

As cars get more sophisticated technologically, drivers have to get used to new features and systems. However, insufficient instruction for drivers on the proper use of these technologies may result in misunderstandings or misuse. For instance, drivers might not be completely aware of the ADAS’s limitations or how to react effectively in an emergency.

Inadequate Defensive Driving Knowledge

Sometimes the emphasis on cutting-edge amenities takes precedence over the necessity of basic driving abilities. Overly dependent drivers are more likely to overlook the importance of proactive safety precautions and defensive driving strategies, which increases their risk of collisions.

5. Behavioral and Human Error Factors

Driver Inaccuracy

Notwithstanding advances in technology, human error continues to be a major contributing cause to accidents. Even with the newest safety measures available to them, drivers may still misread distances, respond poorly to hazards, or make bad decisions. The intricacy of contemporary automobiles can occasionally intensify these problems, resulting in catastrophic consequences.

Excessive self-assurance

Drivers of high-tech vehicles may become overconfident because they think their sophisticated features make them impervious to collisions. This arrogance can result in unsafe actions, including speeding or disobeying traffic restrictions, which raises the possibility of serious collisions.

To conclude

The intricate relationship between cutting-edge technology and human variables is shown by the deaths caused by new Range Rovers and other high-tech cars. While there are many safety benefits to current automotive systems, there are also new risks and concerns. This concerning trend is exacerbated by an over-reliance on ADAS, high-speed performance, in-car distractions, insufficient driver education, and human error. Drivers must priorities defensive driving techniques, be alert at all times, and comprehend the limitations of the technologies in their cars in order to improve road safety. We can endeavor to lessen the frequency of significant collisions involving cutting-edge vehicles by addressing these factors.

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Legacy Beyond Wealth

                  More Than Just Gold and Silver Remain in Your Name Upon Inheritance

Often, when we think about inheritance, we picture wealth, real estate, and tangible goods. We intend to leave our heirs with gold, silver, and other material possessions. But inheritance is much more than merely leaving worldly wealth in one’s wake. It includes leaving behind morals, knowledge, customs, and even the intangible influence one has on next generations. Let’s examine the deeper facets of what we leave behind and discover why inheritance is more than just wealth and silver.

The Meaning of Succession in Actuality

1. Values and Principles: In essence, heredity is the process of transmitting our values and ideas to subsequent generations. A few traits that shape our personality are kindness, integrity, work ethic, and moral compass. Our lifestyle, the decisions we make, and the principles we uphold all influence our legacy. The moral and ethical basis that is ingrained in loved ones and children is widely regarded as their greatest inheritance.

2. Information and insight: A lifetime’s worth of information and insight can be a priceless inheritance, even in situations when financial assets are not involved. Future generations might benefit from the insights, experiences, and lessons shared by others in order to make better decisions and overcome obstacles in life. This legacy of knowledge and experience, which lays the groundwork for future personal and professional development, can be far more important than any financial possession.

3. Family Traditions and Culture: Our legacy is mostly composed of common histories, cultural customs, and family traditions. Through customs, tales, and festivities that unite generations, these traditions foster a sense of identity and belonging. By preserving tradition and fortifying familial ties, passing down these cultural components helps to ensure that the core of who we are endures.

4. Emotional and Psychological Impact: One often-ignored part of inheritance is the emotional and psychological mark we make on our loved ones. The affection, assistance, and motivation we offer enhance our family’s emotional health. This intangible legacy has a significant impact on their life by helping to shape their resilience, self-worth, and general mental health.

5. Social Contributions and Legacy: Our beneficial community improvements and contributions to society are also a part of our legacy. The impact we have on others, whether via activism, philanthropy, or random acts of kindness, goes beyond our immediate family. Future generations may be motivated to go on changing the world and advancing social justice by this social legacy.

Creating a Valuable Heritage

More than just building riches, creating a meaningful inheritance calls for intentionality and introspection. To make sure that your legacy extends beyond tangible possessions, follow these steps:

1. Set an example of the values you want to impart: Lead a life that embodies the principles you wish to teach others. Set a strong example for your heirs by acting with responsibility, compassion, and integrity.

2. Disseminate Your Wisdom and Experiences: Give people around you some time to be guided and mentored. Talk about your experiences, career lessons, and life lessons to assist others gain from your acquired expertise.

3. Preserve and Pass Down Traditions: Continue cultural customs and familial traditions while actively involving the next generation in them. This contributes to a feeling of continuity and inclusion.

4. Promote Emotional Bonds: Make an investment in your loved ones by cultivating enduring, sustaining relationships. Their growth and wellbeing are greatly aided by your emotional support and presence.

5. Have a Positive Social Impact: Take part in endeavors that advance both your neighborhood and society as a whole. Whether it’s through advocacy, volunteering, or charitable giving, your actions can encourage others to do the same.

In summary

Beyond the material wealth left behind, inheritance exists. It includes the morals, knowledge, customs, and emotional imprint we leave for succeeding generations. By emphasising these intangible elements, we can leave a lasting legacy that improves the world in significant ways and influences future generations’ lives long after the silver and gold run out. In the end, the real test of inheritance is not how much money we leave behind, but rather how many lives we influence and the legacy we build with our deeds and beliefs.

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Excessive Green Tea and Supplemental Doses

Unknown Hazard to Liver Health

Green tea has long been praised for its many health advantages, which include its ability to strengthen weight loss efforts, lower blood pressure, and offer an abundance of antioxidants. Similarly, because of their reputation for boosting general wellness and filling in dietary deficiencies, dietary supplements have established themselves as a mainstay in many people’s health regimes. But recent alerts from medical professionals draw attention to a potentially dangerous risk: excessive amounts of green tea extract and specific supplements may harm the liver.

The Mysteries of Green Tea

Green tea contains a lot of polyphenols, especially catechins, which are thought to have several health advantages. Since these substances are frequently concentrated in supplements, many people assume that bigger dosages must translate into more health benefits. Healthcare practitioners are concerned about the overuse of green tea extracts, nevertheless.

Research and Cautions

Studies have indicated that excessive intakes of green tea extract may cause liver damage, or hepatotoxicity. It seems that the content of catechins in supplements is the source of the issue. While it’s widely accepted that a reasonable amount of brewed green tea is safe to consume, supplements can contain considerably larger amounts of these components, which may be too much for the liver to process efficiently.

Abdominal pain, jaundice, and increased liver enzymes are among the signs of liver damage that severe cases of high dosages of green tea extract consumption have reported. In the worst situations, acute liver failure may result, requiring immediate medical attention.

The Supplemental Predicament

It’s not just green tea that has the potential to harm the liver. Many dietary supplements have been connected to liver problems when taken excessively or without appropriate medical supervision. Among the frequent offenders are:

1. Supplements with herbs: Some herbal preparations have been linked to liver damage, including chaparral and kava. Although chaparral is frequently used in detox formulations, it has been associated to significant liver damage. Kava, used for its relaxing qualities, has also been connected to substantial liver damage.

2. Bodybuilding Supplements: Products that are advertised as aiding in fat reduction and muscle gain, such as those that contain anabolic steroids or other performance-enhancing substances, may also put undue strain on the liver. These drugs are processed by the liver, and overuse can be harmful to the liver.

3. Fat Burners and Energy Pills: A lot of supplements meant to help with weight reduction and energy contain substances like ephedra or high doses of caffeine that can overwork the liver.

4. Vitamins and Minerals: Although normally healthy in moderation, too much of several vitamins and minerals (including iron, niacin, and vitamin A) can be hazardous to the liver.

Professional Guidance on Safe Supplement Utilization

Experts stress the significance of moderation and medical supervision when it comes to supplement use in light of these hazards. Here are some important rules to remember:

1. Speak with healthcare professionals: See a healthcare professional before beginning any new supplement program, especially if it calls for hefty dosages. Based on specific medical requirements and situations, they can assist in determining the safety and necessity of the supplement.

2. Comply with Suggested Doses: Observe the dose recommendations made by the manufacturers or your medical professional. Refrain from going over these limitations in the hopes of getting better results.

3. Monitor Liver Health: Regular blood testing monitoring can assist identify any early indications of liver dysfunction if you take excessive dosages of supplements or have any concerns regarding the health of your liver.

4. Select Reputable Brands: Go for dietary supplements from respectable producers who are open about the components they use and how they are made. A supplement’s potential for negative effects may be increased if it contains impurities or is dosed incorrectly.

5. Use Caution When Combining Supplements: Taking supplements with prescription drugs or combining them can raise the risk of interactions and possible liver damage.

In summary

Green tea and nutritional supplements can be very beneficial to health, however excessive dosages or improper use can seriously jeopardise liver health. Moderation and wise use are crucial. People can minimise the dangers and still benefit from these items by being aware of the possible hazards and getting competent advice. A cautious and informed approach is necessary, as with any health-related decision, to make sure that the quest of wellness does not compromise the health of important organs.

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An Unsettling Discovery.

       Police Assist 13 Prisoners Including a Kware Murder Suspect to Evade Detention

13 prisoners, including a well-known murder suspect from Kware, are claimed to have escaped from custody with the help of police officials in a dramatic turn of events, according to recent reports. Serious concerns regarding the public’s safety and the integrity of the legal system have been raised by this abrupt development.

The Event: A Serious Breakout

There were dramatic circumstances surrounding the escape. The prisoners, housed at a facility in Nairobi, allegedly managed to escape the jail with the assistance of multiple police officials who were meant to be watching over them. The escape required a well-planned operation that included going around security checks and conventions. Those who managed to escape included the murder suspect in Kware, who was on trial for a horrific act.

The specifics of the escape’s execution are still being worked out. It is reported that the prisoners managed to escape the prison by using a mix of outside help and inside information. Police officials’ assistance in the escape has raised questions about possible cooperation and corruption within the ranks of the law enforcement.

The Effect: Pervasive Repercussions

1. Issues with Public Safety

What’s more concerning is the high-profile murder suspect’s escape. Because of how graphic the Kware murder case was, a lot of public attention had already been drawn to it. Given that the suspect is suspected of committing a violent crime, the public’s safety is seriously threatened by their release. There is a real worry in the community and among the relatives of the victims that the escaped suspect may take revenge or commit more acts of violence.

2. A decline in faith in law enforcement

The public’s confidence in the police has been seriously damaged by this episode. It is required of law enforcement organizations to protect the community’s safety and enforce the law. Nonetheless, the legitimacy and dependability of the entire system are compromised when law enforcement personnel assist in an escape. People are starting to wonder if they can still trust the police to protect and serve them, or if corruption has permeated every aspect of the organization.

3. Consequences for Law and Administration

An internal investigation of the actions of the participating officers has been prompted by the escape. A more thorough examination of jail security procedures as well as disciplinary and criminal charges may result from this investigation. In addition, the incident begs the concerns of how such an operation could have happened covertly and what steps will be taken going forward to stop such breaches.

4. Tighter Security Protocols

There has been an instant effort to evaluate and bolster security protocols at prison institutions nationwide in reaction to the escape. To stop similar events in the future, authorities will probably put stricter accountability, monitoring, and check procedures in place. But more than increased security will be needed to win back public trust; accountability and openness must be shown.

The Effects: Seeking Redress and Change

1. Chasing the Runaway Prisoners

Recapturing the fugitive prisoners is law enforcement’s top priority right now. In an effort to track down and capture the runaways including the suspected murderer of Kware a manhunt has been initiated. In order to address public concerns and lessen the impact of the escape, this operation’s success is essential.

2. Dealing with Corrupt Practices

Given that police officers were involved in the escape, the law enforcement system needs a thorough anti-corruption campaign. Rebuilding trust in the police requires addressing corruption and making sure that those responsible are held accountable. In order to address the underlying causes of corruption, this will entail systemic reforms in addition to disciplinary measures against those implicated.

3. Reassurance and Public Communication

In the wake of such incidents, public communication must be done effectively. The community needs to be reassured of their safety and given clear information about the actions being taken by the authorities to resolve the situation. To restore confidence and show a dedication to justice, transparency and openness are essential.

In summary

With the alleged help of police officials, 13 prisoners among them a well-known murder suspect escaped, posing a serious legal violation and a major risk to public safety. Deeply ingrained problems with the legal system have been exposed by the tragedy, prompting serious concerns about accountability, security, and corruption. The implementation of changes aimed at restoring public trust and safeguarding the integrity of the justice system will be imperative as law enforcement attempts to apprehend the escaped persons and tackle the wider consequences of their flight.

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The con game and why ignorance is no defence

PHOTO | MATI MANGO | Pexels

A security feature by a Kenyan Police Officer

Francis was approached by a well-dressed man who introduced himself as Joshua. Joshua was not only articulate but had on an expensive classy wristwatch and shoes to match his good taste. He carried himself with the confidence of a handsomely compensated manager. Francis was impressed. But it was Joshua’s next statement that had Francis wowed over.

“I work in one of the Government Ministries as a procurement manager.”

If you are not aware, a hustler meeting a procurement manager from a government office is like a thirsty man walking into a burst pipe bubbling out fresh water.

Joshua told Francis that he looked trustworthy and could do good business with the Ministry.

“You know how we have been getting bad publicity. I need someone that can do an excellent job for the Ministry.”

“My company will deliver,” Francis said, meaning every word of it. One of Francis’s businesses was a computer and accessories firm. Joshua was interested in procuring quality computers through Francis’s firm.

“This is a tender worthy forty million. The Ministry requires a serious firm.” Joshua said, studying Francis.

“I only supply the best in the market.”

Joshua checked his phone.

“My day is packed, but we can have lunch tomorrow.”

“That is perfect for me.” Francis made a mental note to cancel his out-of-town trip.

The following day, Joshua suggested a hotel whose lunch menu would pay one term’s secondary fees for a day scholar in Turkana. Joshua paid their bill and tipped the waiters generously. He seemed to be a frequent visitor to the hotel and popular with the waiters.

For the next three days, Joshua and Francis met and discussed the procurement deal.

“The Government needs the computers. Of course, we will tender publicly.” Joshua said and continued. “But being the manager in procurement, I will make sure that your firm is selected.” This was music to Francis’s ears. His life was about to change. He would finally build their dream home, take his family on holiday, buy his wife her dream car…

“Nothing in life is for free. For my sweat, I only need twenty percent of the deal.” Joshua interrupted Francis’s new life vision. Francis was to quote one hundred million shillings worth of consignment to deliver to the ministry. He was however to deliver computers worth 40 million shillings. Joshua was to ensure that Francis was paid as quoted and invoiced, one hundred million shillings, pay Joshua his cut, which was to be shared with the Ministry boss and other people in on the deal. Francis agreed to everything.

Joshua gave Francis the necessary procurement documents. Francis noted that they all had government seals and were printed on the Ministry letterhead. To up his confidence, Francis also visited Joshua in the said Ministry office. He was ushered into a massive board room. A friendly chubby lady introduced herself as Joshua’s secretary and served Francis coffee. Joshua came to the board room accompanied by another smartly dressed man.

“Caleb is the PA –personal assistant to the CS.” Joshua introduced the two and said that since the boss – Cabinet Secretary- was part of the deal, the three needed to discuss this away from prying eyes.

A driver was waiting outside the office. He chauffeured the three to the same high-end hotel. Caleb informed Francis that the CS had asked for the goodwill of five million as an assurance that Francis would not take off with the one hundred million once it was paid. It had to be in cash, either in shillings but preferably in US dollars. Two days later, Caleb, sounding very excited called Francis.

“The CS wants to meet you.”

Francis dropped everything that he was doing and showed up looking sharp and serious. He was ushered into the board room. But after waiting for a while, the secretary apologised and informed Caleb and Francis that the CS had to rush out to an urgent meeting but that he had endorsed the deal. It was agreed that Francis would show up with the money. The driver ushered Francis out and mentioned how good a person the CS was and how his life had changed because of him.

After a week, Joshua called Francis and told him that he needed to deliver the procurements documents well completed and sealed, all requirements attached. He was also to come with the cash. He had only managed to put together two million.

“Don’t worry. You bring the documents, they are more urgent. We will give them the two million for now as you raise the balance.” Joshua said.

Francis brought the duly filled documents and the two million shillings.

“As you raise the balance, ensure that you are also sourcing only for the best quality computers,” Joshua said. Francis assured him that he had already contacted the manufacturer. But four days later, Joshua called him and told him that the boss had said to refund the two million back to Francis.

“He thinks that you are not serious,” Joshua said and told Francis that they could meet at the same place for him to collect his money. Francis was stunned. Was forty million going to disappear just like that? He could not lose out on a deal of a lifetime. He beseeched Joshua to convince the boss that by that evening Francis would raise another one million shillings.

“I have also paid for half of the consignment. Please tell him that I am very serious.” After consultations on phone, Joshua told Francis that the boss had one condition if the deal was to continue. Francis was to deliver the consignment of computers worth twenty million shillings to what he was informed was a government warehouse on Mombasa road, plus the one million shillings. The balance of two million shillings was to be delivered within two weeks, at the time of his invoicing for the one hundred million shillings pay from the Ministry. Francis delivered the computers in the said warehouse, plus the one million shillings to Joshua.

Five days later, Francis tried to call Joshua but his phone was off. Joshua’s phone was off the whole day, evening and that night, and the following day. Francis had Caleb’s number but it too was off. He decided to go to the Ministry office and asked to see Joshua, the procurement manager. After a few minutes, he was directed to an office, where he met a short, stout man.

“Yes? I am Joshua. How can I help you?”

“I wanted to see Joshua, the procurement manager,” Francis said.

“I am the procurement manager.” The man said. Francis had never seen him before.

“I know the other Joshua. He is tall and slim.”

This short stout Joshua told Francis that maybe he was in the wrong office and called the secretary, a slim elderly woman.

“The other secretary was chubby.” Francis blurted. Now, they got curious. They asked him to sit down and explain himself. He told them everything. They looked at him as if he was a retard. It was at this moment that he finally realised that he had been conned.

He showed up at the station, looking like a tractor had run through him. My colleague, detective Reuben of the Fraud And Obtaining Department could not convince the now distraught Francis that there would be nothing in the warehouse on Mombasa road.

“You Police must take me there. Let’s go there now!” Francis was screaming.

Detective Reuben and I followed Francis to the warehouse. We had dealt with similar cases before and were not surprised at the outcome. At the said warehouse, we met traders offloading Mitumba bails.

“I want the owner of this warehouse!” Francis shouted. We met the owner who showed us an agreement indicating that Francis had hired the warehouse for a week. Attached were Francis’s copies of the national identification card and the payment receipt. We checked the phone numbers that Joshua and Caleb had used. They were newly registered numbers under fictitious names.

“How is this possible?” Francis stammered.

“People buy phone lines in the streets daily.” Detective Reuben told him. Francis did not want to believe that it was his fault that he was conned. He was so angry at us, the police, and was convinced that somehow we were involved.

You see, Karau has to be blamed for everything. Utumishi kwa wote comes with the territory.
Officer Karao is a law-abiding citizen