Police recruits have been warned that what they post online could affect public trust in the National Police Service, with the agency urging them to exercise caution and professionalism on social media as they prepare to begin their policing careers.
The warning was issued by NPS Director of Corporate Communications and spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga during a sensitisation session at the National Police College Main Campus in Kiganjo on Monday, August 17, 2026.
The session focused on responsible use of social media and other digital platforms as the recruits approach the end of their training and prepare to take up policing duties across the country.
In a post on X on Tuesday, the NPS said Nyaga highlighted the growing importance of communication in modern policing and urged the recruits to maintain professionalism and exercise discretion in their conduct both online and offline.
The recruits were told they could continue using personal social media accounts but would remain responsible for anything they post, share, comment on or livestream.
Particular caution was issued over information relating to police operations, crime scenes and ongoing investigations.
Nyaga warned the recruits against sharing crime-scene images, confidential Service information, operational plans and details of sensitive incidents on digital platforms.
He also cautioned them against posting inappropriate content while in uniform, noting that their activities online could affect how members of the public view the National Police Service.
The recruits were further reminded to protect the privacy and dignity of victims and suspects when using social media and other digital platforms.
The NPS said the guidance was intended to help the recruits understand the wider impact of their digital footprint as they prepare to assume their responsibilities as police officers.
Rather than using social media carelessly, the recruits were encouraged to use the platforms to support community policing, educate the public and share verified information through authorised NPS communication channels.
Nyaga urged the recruits to think carefully before putting anything online, stressing the responsibility that comes with wearing the police uniform.
The agency also reminded them to think before posting, with Nyaga stressing that every police officer serves as a communications ambassador for the Service.
According to the message delivered during the session, officers’ conduct online and offline should reflect the dignity, discipline and professionalism expected of members of the National Police Service.
The recruits were also reminded that their duties extend beyond their physical work, with their communication and digital behaviour forming part of their professional conduct.
The NPS further told the recruits that their badge represents responsibility, their conduct represents character and their communication represents professionalism.
The sensitisation session was attended by College Chief Instructor Humphrey Abai, Director of the School of Basic Training Fredrick Konya and other senior officers.
The session comes as the recruits prepare to complete their training and commence policing duties across the country.