Rising concern over police conduct in Narok has prompted a sharp response from the Law Society of Kenya, which is calling for firm steps against officers linked to two incidents that have caused public outrage.
The Society says both cases highlight deep issues within the security and justice system, touching on unlawful violence, obstruction of justice and disregard for children’s rights.
In its statement, LSK President Faith Odhiambo described the experiences of Jane Pariwat and a 17-year-old boy only identified as FST as alarming, noting that both individuals suffered at the hands of those meant to protect citizens and uphold the law.
Pariwat was reportedly attacked in Naroosura, Narok South, while seeking help in a domestic property matter. Odhiambo said she was subjected to degrading treatment at the hands of an officer.
"According to credible reports, Pariwat was viciously beaten, stripped, and humiliated by a police officer while pursuing the resolution of a domestic property dispute. This act constituted egregious physical and sexual violence and a grave violation of her dignity as a Kenyan citizen," said Odhiambo.
LSK said the attempt by police to block her from getting a P3 form made the situation even more troubling, pointing to what it termed a worrying effort to silence victims rather than support them.
The Society also raised concerns over the handling of the teenager’s case at Naroosura Police Station and in court.
The 17-year-old was allegedly tortured during detention and later sentenced as an adult without a lawyer, which LSK said violated protections outlined in the Children Act, including sections 96(3), 228, and 238(1).
It faulted the presiding magistrate for failing to conduct a preliminary inquiry to confirm the minor’s age and ignoring the need for medical attention linked to the reported abuse.
"Every judicial officer should know that this failure to uphold their duty under Section 236 of the Children's Act, which requires courts to uphold the best interests and well-being of the child in all matters concerning them, is unacceptable. Even more troubling is the issuance of a committal warrant, in blatant violation of Section 238(1), which expressly prohibits the imprisonment of a child," the LSK statement reads.
"This sequence of actions exposes a shocking level of judicial negligence and disregard for the law, especially towards children and those who are most vulnerable."
LSK urged IPOA to fast-track investigations and asked the ODPP to pursue charges against any officers found responsible. It also called on the Judiciary to review the conduct of those involved in the minor’s case so that trust in the justice system is not eroded further.
The Society thanked Pariwat and the teenager’s family for pursuing the truth even in the face of intimidation and encouraged citizens to continue speaking up against abuse.
It assured the victims and their families of full legal support and insisted all justice actors must remain committed to fairness, constitutional values and protection of vulnerable groups.
