IG Kanja Urges Kenyans to Respect Police After Foreigner Assaults Officers in Diani
The Inspector General of Police, Douglas Kanja, has appealed to Kenyans to maintain mutual respect and cooperation with law enforcement officers.
His remarks came after a shocking video circulated online showing a Dutch national assaulting police officers at Diani Police Station in Kwale County.
In a statement released on Wednesday afternoon, National Police Service (NPS) Spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga emphasized the importance of respect and peaceful cooperation between the police and the public.
He urged Kenyans to use official channels to report any grievances instead of resorting to insults, aggression, or violence.
“The Service urges members of the public to cooperate with police officers and to channel any grievances or complaints through accountability mechanisms, rather than resorting to abusive or violent behaviour,” Nyaga stated.
He added that mutual respect between law enforcement and citizens remains a key foundation for peace, stability, and good order in the country.
The appeal followed an incident that occurred on Tuesday, October 28, when a Dutch national was captured on video shouting at and physically assaulting two police officers at Diani Police Station.
The man, who had been apprehended by police, was seen spitting on the officers as they stood calmly, maintaining restraint and professionalism throughout the ordeal.
Nyaga explained that the foreigner used highly disrespectful and abusive language against the officers as they carried out their lawful duties.
He condemned the foreigner’s actions, describing them as unacceptable and unlawful. The police spokesperson confirmed that the suspect is set to appear in court to face assault-related charges.
“Any attack, whether verbal, physical, or otherwise, against a police officer constitutes an affront to the rule of law and undermines the integrity and dignity of the National Police Service,” Nyaga said firmly.
He further praised the two officers involved for their discipline and calm reaction during the incident, despite extreme provocation. According to Nyaga, their response demonstrated the professionalism and restraint that the police service continues to promote through its ongoing reforms.
“The restraint shown by the officers reflects the progress we have made through continuous police reforms. These reforms are aimed at strengthening professionalism, accountability, and respect for human rights within the National Police Service,” he added.
Meanwhile, the viral video sparked widespread outrage among Kenyans, many of whom took to social media to demand action from Inspector General Douglas Kanja and Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen.
They called for swift justice and stricter measures to ensure that foreigners respect Kenya’s laws and its law enforcement officers.
The National Police Service has since reassured the public that the matter is being handled with the seriousness it deserves and that the dignity of police officers will continue to be safeguarded.
Nyaga concluded by reminding Kenyans that respecting the police is a shared responsibility that helps build trust, safety, and harmony within communities.
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