The National Police Service (NPS) has issued a response following concerns raised by Catholic Bishops regarding rising incidents of abductions, torture, and violence, including murders of women. The police statement, signed by Inspector General Douglas Kanja on November 14, addresses the criticisms and outlines NPS’s actions amid recent civil unrest and criminal activity.
The NPS cited that protests against the Finance Bill 2024, held from June to July, resulted in significant violence, including 42 civilian fatalities, 495 police officer injuries, and 69 damaged government vehicles. Additionally, 57 individuals were reported missing, with 22 found alive, six deceased, and 29 still unaccounted for as police continue search efforts.
Regarding the recent surge in female homicides, NPS reported 97 cases in the past three months, with multiple suspects arrested and charged. To address these incidents, NPS has established a specialized Missing Persons Unit within the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) and activated Gender Desks nationwide to respond swiftly to gender-based violence cases.
The NPS reaffirmed its commitment to collaboration with the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) in cases where police are implicated, stating: “All cases where police officers are suspected have been handed over to IPOA, and we are fully cooperating in these investigations.”
To enhance safety, NPS emphasized it is increasing security across Kenya and urged citizens to assist by providing information that could aid ongoing investigations. The statement concluded with a pledge from NPS to “serve and protect all persons in the country.”
