Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has issued a firm warning to police officers accused of abusing their authority, saying the government will take action against any form of human rights violations within the security sector.
Murkomen said the issue of police brutality has drawn growing concern after incidents were first reported in Nairobi and later emerged in other regions, prompting the government to closely examine the conduct of officers on the ground.
He said the National Police Service has responded by holding consultations with top police leadership to ensure better oversight and enforcement of discipline.
“We have engaged the Inspector General of Police and the Deputy Inspectors General to ensure commanders are properly briefed and closely monitor officers who violate the law, including those who shoot citizens or their colleagues,” Murkomen said.
The CS said the government remains focused on strengthening professionalism within the police service and ensuring that law enforcement operations are carried out without corruption and in line with constitutional protections.
He warned that officers who engage in unlawful shootings, intimidation or the use of excessive force, whether against civilians or fellow officers, will face consequences under both disciplinary procedures and the law.
Murkomen said the government does not justify or excuse human rights violations, adding that holding police officers accountable is a key responsibility under the Constitution.
Addressing residents in Kisumu, he said tackling police brutality is among the priorities outlined in the broad-based administration’s 10-point agenda, which seeks to promote accountability and professionalism across the security sector.
He said police commanders nationwide have been instructed to closely supervise officers under their command and take immediate action against any form of misconduct.
“It is in our interest as a government to ensure that those who violate the law are punished,” he said.
Murkomen also pointed to mental health challenges among some officers as a factor linked to recent incidents involving police violence.
Referring to insights from the Jukwala la Usalama forums, he said commanders must ensure that officers suspected of having mental health concerns are not deployed on duty.
He said additional steps must be taken to protect officers who may be exposed to danger from colleagues struggling with alcohol abuse or mental health-related problems.
According to Murkomen, such officers should be removed from operational duties and referred for medical care, counselling or rehabilitation, with commanders expected to act without delay.
“Those officers who need medical attention are removed from active service and taken to rehabilitation centres or medical facilities,” he said.
He said these actions are aimed at preventing further cases where members of the public, including children, are subjected to excessive force by armed police officers.
Murkomen said the Interior Ministry will continue working closely with National Police Service leadership to reinforce discipline, professionalism and respect for human rights across the country.
