Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja has mandated the immediate interdiction of officers responsible whenever a detainee dies while in police custody. The directive specifically targets the Occurrence Book (OB) recorder, cell sentry, and duty officer.
The order was announced on August 12 during a sensitisation forum on new Service Standing Orders and police reforms held at the National Police Leadership Academy in Ngong. Kanja emphasized the need for commanders to enforce the interdictions promptly to facilitate thorough investigations.
Key Details of the Directive
- Immediate interdiction of OB recorder, cell sentry, and duty officer upon any death in police cells.
- Interdictions are to remain in place pending investigation outcomes.
- Officers found responsible may face demotion, legal action, or other disciplinary measures.
- Regional police commanders are tasked with ensuring compliance at their stations.
Kanja described deaths in custody as a grave issue demanding urgent accountability. This directive follows several recent incidents, including the death of Gedion Makau at Kilungu Police Station in Makueni County, which is currently under investigation with involvement from the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA).
Last year, similar action was taken when influencer Albert Ojwang died in Nairobi Central Police Station custody. The Director of Public Prosecutions revealed Ojwang was assaulted before his death, leading to interdictions and ongoing legal proceedings.
The IG’s latest order underscores a renewed commitment by the National Police Service to uphold accountability and prevent further custodial deaths.
