The National Police Service (NPS) has strongly condemned the verbal assault and public harassment of police officers by a foreign national at Diani Police Station in Kwale County, describing the incident as “crass, despicable, and utterly unacceptable.”
In a statement issued on Wednesday, NPS Spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga confirmed that the incident occurred on October 28, 2025, involving a suspect identified as Elwin Ter Horst, who directed abusive and demeaning language at officers while they were performing their lawful duties.
“The feedback received is unanimous, this was crass, despicable, and utterly unacceptable behaviour by a suspect in lawful custody,” the statement read.
NPS emphasized that such conduct would not be tolerated under any circumstances, adding that the suspect will be arraigned in court to face appropriate legal action.
“Any attack, whether verbal, physical, or otherwise, constitutes an affront to the rule of law and undermines the integrity and dignity of the National Police Service,” the Service stated.
The Police Service commended the officers involved for maintaining professionalism, restraint, and composure despite extreme provocation.
“Their conduct reflects the high level of discipline and maturity expected of law enforcement officers and serves as a model for others to emulate,” Nyaga said.
According to NPS, the officers’ restraint is evidence of the progress achieved through ongoing police reforms aimed at improving professionalism, accountability, and respect for human rights within the Service.
These reforms, the statement added, are anchored on comprehensive training, adoption of modern policing tools, improved welfare and infrastructure, and enhanced focus on community engagement and gender responsiveness.
Reaffirming its unwavering commitment to maintaining law and order, the NPS said it will continue upholding the rule of law while protecting the rights of all citizens, residents, and visitors in Kenya.
“However, the Service will not hesitate to take firm and lawful action against any individual who undermines police authority or interferes with officers discharging their duties,” the statement warned.
The NPS also urged members of the public to cooperate with police officers and to use established accountability channels to air grievances rather than resorting to abusive or violent behaviour.
“Mutual respect between the police and the public remains fundamental to a peaceful and orderly society,” Nyaga said.
The statement further reaffirmed that the National Police Service remains steadfast in its mission to serve, protect, and maintain law and order across the country with professionalism and integrity.
Dutch national, Elwin Ter Horst, was seen on video hurling insults and spitting on police officers at Diani Police Station. In a viral video, Horst was seen shouting at officers, and went on gobbing and hawking saliva and mucus at a male police officer in the station.
The suspect has since been arraigned at the Kwale court.
