The National Police Service (NPS) has denied allegations of involvement in abductions, calling such accusations “false, malicious, and misinformed.”
In a press statement released Tuesday, Inspector General Douglas Kanja Kirocho reaffirmed the Service’s mandate to protect and serve citizens while adhering to constitutional guidelines.
“Our role is to arrest criminal offenders, not abduct individuals,” stated the Inspector General.
“All arrests are recorded in the Occurrence Book, and suspects are either arraigned in court or released if procedural thresholds are not met. There is no police station in Kenya holding the alleged abductees.”
Public Urged to Avoid Misinformation
The statement emphasized the importance of responsible freedom of expression, urging the public to refrain from spreading unverified claims.
“While Kenya guarantees freedom of speech, it must be exercised responsibly,” Mr. Kirocho said.
“The circulation of malicious and false information harms not just the National Police Service but also undermines public trust in our institutions.”
The NPS encouraged anyone with credible information on missing persons to report it to the nearest police station.
Investigations Underway
The matter is now under investigation by the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) and other independent agencies. A senior NPS official, speaking to The Daily Whistle, emphasized the Service’s cooperation in the investigations.
“Investigations are critical to maintaining transparency and accountability,” the official said. “We are committed to resolving this issue swiftly.”
Civil Society Demands Transparency
Despite the NPS’s assurances, human rights groups and families of missing individuals have expressed skepticism.
“While the police dismiss these claims, families are still left without answers,” said Mary Njoroge, a representative of the Kenya Human Rights Commission. “We urge the authorities to expedite investigations and ensure justice for those affected.”
Another activist, James Otieno, described the allegations as a wake-up call. “If the police are truly uninvolved, they must work harder to clear their name and protect citizens from any rogue elements,” he noted.
A Call for Unity
The Inspector General concluded the statement by reaffirming the Service’s dedication to protecting all Kenyans.
“Our commitment to safety and security remains steadfast,” he said. “We ask for patience and cooperation from the public as we address these concerns.”
As investigations continue, all eyes are on the police and oversight bodies to deliver a clear and credible resolution to the allegations.