Retired president Uhuru Kenyatta made a stunning entry at the Azimio La Umoja coalition memorial held yesterday at the SKM Command Centre in Karen, Nairobi.
Uhuru chose to drive himself to the event in his favorite vehicle, a black Mercedes Benz G Wagon, which, little did the attendees know, is not just any ordinary SUV.
The unassuming black G Wagon that Uhuru often drives is, in fact, an armoured model modified for maximum protection.
This heavily fortified G-Wagon vehicle features bulletproof glass, run-flat tires, and other impressive security features.
The base model of the G Wagon is valued at over Ksh 15 million, but Uhuru’s version is far more expensive due to the extensive armor upgrades, which cost around Ksh 15 million, and could even reach an astounding Ksh 50 million.
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How was its armoring done?
- The process of armoring the G Wagon involves reinforcing the chassis to protect the undercarriage and installing bulletproof glass.
- The frame, shock absorbers, and engine are all modified to handle the added weight of the armor, making it a true fortress on wheels.
- Furthermore, an air filtration system is installed to shield against gas attacks, while smoke screens are available to reduce the visibility of potential pursuers.
The significance of Uhuru’s armored G Wagon was first noticed years ago when an online video showed him buying groundnuts along Uhuru Highway while driving the vehicle.
Since then, he has been spotted on various occasions, including impromptu visits to places like Kenyatta Market and Nyayo Stadium.
Moreover, it’s not just the G Wagon that showcases Uhuru Kenyatta’s preference for armored vehicles.
During his final hours as president, he was seen in a Mercedes Benz S 600 Pullman Guard, a car renowned for its high ballistic protection level, on par with vehicles owned by powerful leaders like Russia’s Vladimir Putin and North Korea’s Kim Jong Un.
This model’s bodywork and windows are bulletproof, capable of withstanding not just bullets but even rocket-propelled grenades.
The Mercedes S 600 Pullman Guard is equipped with safety reinforcement features, ensuring the vehicle can continue to drive even while under attack.
Its tires are fitted with steel rings, preventing them from slipping off in the event of a flat tire, while the run-flat technology allows the car to maintain a getaway despite a puncture.
Furthermore, the fuel tank is coated with a special material that automatically prevents leakage when hit, a feature commonly found in attack helicopters.
As for the engine, the Mercedes S 600 Pullman Guard is powered by a twin-turbocharged V12 engine with an impressive 530 brake horsepower, enabling it to reach a top speed of 160 kilometers per hour.
Armored vehicles have proven their importance in protecting prominent figures like Raila Odinga, who claimed that his armoured Lexus LX570 saved his life after being shot at ten times by police.
The armored SUV, produced in the United Arab Emirates by the Streit Group, features bulletproof glass and armor plating, providing protection against live rounds and even tear gas due to its air filtration system.
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