The Inspector General of Police, Douglas Kanja, has issued a strong and detailed warning to both members of the public and police officers following a series of violent incidents and rising tensions across the country.
Speaking from Vigilance House in Nairobi on Friday, April 17, the police chief made it clear that the government will not tolerate attacks on police stations, destruction of public property, or any form of lawlessness.
In his address, Kanja stressed that police stations are not ordinary buildings but critical institutions that play a central role in maintaining safety and responding to emergencies.
He explained that any attack on such facilities is equivalent to putting the lives and security of ordinary citizens at risk.
According to him, the National Police Service will respond firmly and without hesitation to anyone found engaging in such acts.
At the same time, the Inspector General turned his attention inward, directing all officers under the National Police Service to strictly follow the law in their operations.
He emphasized that every officer must respect the Constitution and operate within the guidelines set by the National Police Service Act and official service standing orders.
Kanja underlined that professionalism, discipline, restraint, and respect for human rights are not optional but mandatory standards that must be upheld at all times.
He warned that any officer who goes against these principles will face immediate disciplinary action. His remarks come in the wake of a troubling incident in Embu County, where police officers were accused of shooting two civilians during protests.
The protest had been sparked by public anger over the poor condition of Ishiara Level IV Hospital in Mbeere North on April 14. The incident has since raised serious concerns about police conduct and the handling of civilian demonstrations.
Kanja further addressed what he described as a worrying increase in political incitement and the alleged use of organized criminal gangs to fuel violence.
He warned that individuals involved in planning, funding, or encouraging such unlawful activities will be tracked down and prosecuted, regardless of their political influence or social status. According to him, no one will be spared if found on the wrong side of the law.
To deal with these emerging threats, the police boss revealed that the NPS has already activated coordinated and lawful security strategies.
These include intensified operations, closer cooperation with other security agencies, and stronger engagement with the public. He said the goal is not only to arrest offenders but also to send a clear message that such actions will not be tolerated in the future.
His statement came shortly after a separate warning from Nairobi Regional Police Commander Issa Mohamud, who raised concerns over planned demonstrations expected on Tuesday, April 21.
Mohamud specifically pointed to the Nairobi Central Business District as a potential hotspot, noting that while the Constitution allows peaceful protests, there are legal procedures that must be followed.
He explained that police had not received any formal notification from protest organizers, which is a legal requirement meant to help authorities plan for security and avoid chaos.
He urged organizers to work closely with the police to ensure that demonstrations remain peaceful and do not disrupt normal activities or endanger lives.
The planned protests are largely driven by growing frustration among Kenyans over the rising cost of living, particularly the sharp increase in fuel prices.
Many citizens say the situation has made daily life more difficult, with transport costs, food prices, and other essential expenses continuing to rise.
Despite the warnings from authorities, some groups have insisted that the demonstrations will go on as planned.
They argue that the economic pressure facing ordinary citizens cannot be ignored and that peaceful protests are a legitimate way to express public dissatisfaction.
On the other hand, some voices have accused the government of trying to silence criticism and limit the right to protest.
The issue has also drawn reactions from political leaders. Opposition figures have issued a seven-day ultimatum demanding urgent action to address the fuel crisis and ease the burden on citizens.
Meanwhile, William Ruto and his deputy Kithure Kindiki have called on critics to focus on constructive solutions rather than organizing mass protests.
As tensions continue to build, the coming days are expected to be critical in determining how both the government and the public respond to the ongoing economic and security concerns.
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