NAKURU — A viral video has pushed Kenya’s police conduct back into the spotlight, prompting a swift response from the country’s top law enforcement official.
Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja has ordered an internal investigation into the alleged mistreatment of a protester living with a disability during the June 25 demonstrations in Nakuru. The footage, widely shared online, has stirred public anger and renewed questions about policing standards.
In a statement released on Friday, police spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga said the National Police Service had taken note of the incident and moved to address it.
“The Service strongly condemns all forms of unprofessional conduct, excessive force, or breaches of established procedures,” Nyaga said, adding that officers are expected to uphold the Constitution and respect human rights at all times.
According to preliminary accounts, the incident occurred during the anniversary of the Gen Z-led protests, which drew crowds across several towns. In Nakuru, tensions appeared to rise as demonstrators gathered, though the exact circumstances surrounding the confrontation remain unclear.
What is clear, however, is the public reaction. The video has circulated widely, with many Kenyans expressing concern over the treatment of vulnerable individuals during crowd control operations.
The police have acknowledged that the conduct seen in the footage may have fallen short of their own standards. Nyaga described the actions as “unacceptable” and inconsistent with the Service’s core values.
Kanja has now directed the Internal Affairs Unit to carry out what officials describe as a thorough and impartial inquiry. Investigators have been given seven days to submit their findings.
“The Inspector General has directed the Internal Affairs Unit to conduct a thorough, professional, and impartial investigation,” Nyaga said. “Appropriate action will be taken based on the findings.”
The National Police Service has also called on members of the public to come forward with any information that could assist the inquiry, urging witnesses to report to police stations or use official hotlines.
Rights groups have long raised concerns about the use of force during protests in Kenya, particularly during moments of political tension. While the police maintain that their role is to preserve order, critics argue that accountability remains uneven.
In its statement, the Service reiterated what it described as a zero-tolerance stance on misconduct.
“We remain committed to professional policing that serves and protects all Kenyans,” Nyaga said, “while fully respecting their constitutional rights.”
At the moment, attention turns to the outcome of the investigation and whether it will bring clarity, or simply deepen an already fraught debate about policing in Kenya.
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