Two computers have been stolen from the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) offices in Kisumu, Kenya, which may contain voter registration information.
Police confirmed the computers were stolen from the offices between 10pm, when the last employees left, and when employees reported in the morning.
The computers are thought to contain important information pertaining to voter registration for Kenya’s upcoming elections on March 4.
“Two desktop computers, two monitors and two Central Processing Units were stolen from the IEBC offices,” said Henry Ndombi, Kisumu East District Criminal Investigative Officer.
Concerns have already been raised as to how a robbery could have occurred in a building which is heavily guarded by Administration Police. Ndombi said a full investigation is underway.
“The officers on duty have also recorded statements with the police and are being investigated too,” he added.
The theft was discovered by an IEBC employee first thing in the morning, who reported the issue to Peris Maiyo, Kisumu Central Returning Officer. It is as yet unclear as to whether the missing computers and data will affect voting in the region, although the Standard writes that Rasi Masudi, IEBC Nyanza Central Regional coordinator, has denied that the thefts will have any impact on voting procedures.
