Former Nairobi Governor and NEDP Party Leader Mike Sonko has warned members of the public against individuals allegedly demanding money for services offered by the Sonko Rescue Team, insisting that all the team’s services are provided free of charge.
Sonko’s warning follows an incident involving a man who approached the Sonko Rescue Team seeking a limousine for his wedding but was allegedly asked to pay more than KSh30,000 to secure the vehicle.
According to Sonko, the man was allegedly approached by individuals claiming to be his personal assistants who told him that payment was required before the limousine could be made available for the wedding.
Sonko has strongly disputed the demand, saying it does not represent the way the Sonko Rescue Team operates. He said wedding limousines, funeral assistance and other forms of support provided by the team are offered to members of the public free of charge.
The former governor said those who allegedly collected or demanded money in his name have been directed to return the money to the affected person or face disciplinary action.
The matter has also been reported to the police, with investigations expected to establish what transpired and identify those involved.
In a public warning, Sonko urged members of the public not to give money to anyone claiming that payment is required to access services offered by the Sonko Rescue Team.
“ALL OUR SERVICES ARE FREE OF CHARGE. We serve every Kenyan without discrimination based on tribe, race, or political affiliation,” Sonko said.
He warned that anyone found collecting money while purporting to represent the Sonko Rescue Team would face action, regardless of whether the individual is a staff member, relative or associate.
“Do not pay anyone,” Sonko said, urging members of the public who encounter such cases to report them directly to him or to the nearest police station.
The Sonko Rescue Team has over the years offered various forms of assistance to members of the public, including support during weddings and funerals, among other interventions.
Sonko said the latest incident should serve as a warning to the public to verify any payment demands before handing over money to individuals claiming to act on behalf of the team.
