a video surfaced showing a Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) officer attempting to confiscate a camera from Citizen TV journalist Agnes Oloo at the DCI Headquarters in Nairobi.
The incident occurred as Oloo was covering the arrival of Kiambu Senator Karungo Wa Thang’wa, who had been summoned in connection with a recent disturbance at a funeral.
The footage, widely shared on social media, depicted the officer aggressively trying to seize Oloo’s equipment, prompting public outcry and condemnation from various quarters.
In response to the incident, Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja publicly apologized to Oloo and the media fraternity.
He acknowledged the overzealous behavior of some officers and assured the public that the matter had been promptly addressed.
Kanja emphasized the importance of a harmonious relationship between law enforcement and the media, recognizing their interdependent roles in society.
Director of Criminal Investigations Mohamed Amin echoed these sentiments, describing the incident as isolated and reaffirming the commitment to ongoing training for officers on appropriate public interactions.
The Crime Journalists Association of Kenya (CJAK) condemned the harassment, calling for disciplinary and legal action against officers involved in such incidents.
They highlighted the necessity for accountability, referencing unresolved cases like the shooting of journalist Catherine Wanjeri during previous protests.
CJAK’s statement underscored the critical role of the media in a democratic society and the imperative for law enforcement to respect journalistic duties.
This incident has reignited discussions on press freedom and the conduct of security personnel in Kenya.
