Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja has directed the immediate interdiction of police officers assigned to OB desk duty, cell sentry roles, and duty officer positions whenever a suspect dies while in custody. This measure is to remain in effect pending thorough investigations into the circumstances surrounding such deaths.
The directive was issued during a sensitisation meeting with regional commanders at the National Police Leadership Academy, where Kanja expressed deep concern over the escalating number of deaths in police custody and the increasing involvement of officers in criminal activities.
Accountability Emphasized for Commanders
Kanja placed significant responsibility on field commanders, criticizing their failure to discipline officers under their supervision as a central factor contributing to these issues. He stressed that any officer linked to a custodial death must be interdicted immediately, emphasizing the commanders' role in enforcing this policy.
"Any death occurring in police cells, involving the OB recorder, the cell sentry, or the duty officer, those officers must be interdicted immediately pending investigation," Kanja stated.
Stricter Consequences for Misconduct
The Inspector General also warned that police misconduct would no longer be met with mere administrative penalties such as demotion or interdiction but would now face legal consequences, signaling a firmer stance from the police leadership.
Regional Commanders Held Responsible for Crime Trends
Deputy Inspector General Gilbert Masengeli, who oversees the Administration Police Service, reinforced the message by holding regional commanders directly accountable for crime rates in their areas. He warned that commanders in the Rift Valley and other regions would be the first to be questioned regarding rising crime.
"Crime is increasing in your areas of responsibility. As commanders, you will be held responsible," Masengeli said.
This joint warning from the IG and Deputy IG reflects a coordinated push within the National Police Service to enhance accountability through the command hierarchy, particularly concerning custodial deaths and officer misconduct.
