By John Kariuki

Nairobi, December 26, 2024 – The National Police Service (NPS) has categorically denied allegations that its officers are involved in the abduction of individuals in Kenya. In a press statement released by the Inspector General of Police, Douglas Kanja Kirocho, the NPS clarified its role as mandated by the Constitution, emphasizing that the service is tasked with arresting criminal offenders, not abducting individuals.

The statement outlined that all arrests conducted by the police adhere to strict procedural standards as outlined in the Service Standing Orders. Arrests are officially documented in the Occurrence Book, and suspects are subsequently arraigned in court. If an arrest fails to meet procedural requirements, the suspects are released from police custody.

“For avoidance of doubt, the National Police Service is not involved in any abduction, and there is no police station in the country that is holding the reported abductees,” the Inspector General stated.

The NPS further reiterated Kenya’s status as a democratic nation that guarantees freedom of expression. However, the service urged citizens to exercise their freedom responsibly, cautioning against the spread of false, malicious, and unverified information that could damage the reputation of the institution.

“The matter in question is subject to investigation by the Independent Policing Oversight Authority and other independent bodies,” the statement read. The NPS also appealed to the public to report any relevant information regarding missing persons to the nearest police station to assist in ongoing investigations.

The Inspector General reaffirmed the service’s commitment to protecting and serving all citizens while urging the public to refrain from actions that could undermine the credibility of law enforcement.

This clarification comes amid rising public concern over cases of disappearances and alleged misconduct by security forces. The NPS reassured the public that it is actively working to uphold the rule of law and its constitutional mandate.