Government comes to the rescue of Asbel Kiprop after he threatened to misuse his gun

The government has moved in swiftly just a few hours after three-time World 1,500 metres champion Asbel Kiprop took to social media, daring the National Police Service to sack him and withdraw his firearm before he uses it to “earn justice.”

Panic swept across the country on Saturday after the 29 year old athletics hero took to Twitter posting: “I pray to National Police Service to dismiss me now. Before I use their machinery to earn myself justice. Kindly. IAAF come take your medals. I don’t need any on my house wall”. 

The tweet saw a team from the police service dispatched to track down Kiprop and disarm him amidst concern that he could put his threat into action.

Counselling for distressed champion

Newly appointed Inspector General of Police (IGP) Hillary Mutyambai confirmed that Kiprop presented himself at Kapseret Police Station upon learning that officers had been dispatched to disarm him.

Mutyambai also revealed that the police service is arranging counselling services for the athletics champion.

"After a series of posts on the social media, a team from the NPS started looking for the athlete and by good luck he presented himself at Kapseret Police Station.” Mutyambai said.

“He will undergo some counselling after a series of disturbing posts earlier in the day," he added.

Kiprop who is currently under suspension after a failed doping test on February 3, 2018 posted a series of tweets, stating that unnamed people can no longer stand him and should not be allowed into his funeral.

“They can’t stand me now & for me to earn justice but if I die today, they will attend my send off to testify my legacy & preach my legacy!! Don’t welcome them.” Tweeted Kiprop.

Act before it is too late

The distress call saw the public urge relevant government authorities and well wishers intervene in the case of the national hero.

We celebrated him when he put Kenya in a good light. And now he appears to be alone with no one to talk to. And no-one to advice him. Athletics Kenya, NOCK, Asbel Kiprop needs your professional assistance.” Tweeted renown sports journalist and media personality Carol Radul.

Lord Abraham Mutai opined that “Asbel Kiprop needs help. He is sick. Let us not watch as he is about to commit suicide then come to whine later. This is a national hero who is quickly sliding into depression. The government needs to act quickly.”