Top Cops

Underneath the official fatigues of three police officers, Praxides, Emma Brenda and Brenda, lies a side that we don’t see on the streets.

- VIVIAN MAINA

EMMA BRENDA WANJIRU,30

'The most-followed cop'

I am a corporal attached to the Central Bank of Kenya where I offer VIP protection and provide security escort.

I used to work as a salesperson at Proctor and Gamble. Deep down though I knew I wanted to serve especially since both my parents have served in the Kenya National Police service.

For tryouts, I went back to my hometown Nyahururu to practise and train back in 2012. I used to run every morning but did not make the cut. I remember crying and questioning God so much and to my surprise he answered my prayers. Among the women who had been selected, one was pregnant. I took up her spot when she was ruled out.

I got my daughter, Lanisha, 12 when I was around 19 years old and that was the most trying time of my life. First my friends deserted me once they learnt that I was a teen mom then my daughter’s father became very abusive. At the time I never thought I would ever get out of the abusive relationship. But I did and that is why I am very vocal on matters about abuse.

I am the most followed cop on Instagram, with 109K followers. This enables me to effectively use my social media platform to help other women going through the same.

Mental health is very important to me. At one point in my life, I had slipped into depression. I am a very reserved person and let it eat me alive. That was before I made the conscious decision to go for counselling after a friend recommended one for me.