The National Police Service (NPS) has reassured Kenyans that security has been significantly enhanced across the country following concerns raised by the Catholic bishops regarding safety, particularly in relation to abductions, disappearances, and the rising number of murders, particularly involving women.
Inspector General of Police, Douglas Kanja, in a statement issued to the press, emphasized that the NPS remains committed to ensuring the safety and security of all Kenyans. He also appealed to the public to collaborate with law enforcement by providing any information that could aid in investigations.
“The National Police Service reiterates its commitment to serve and protect all persons in Kenya,” Kanja said, urging citizens to cooperate with security officers in the ongoing efforts to address security challenges.
This reassurance comes after the Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops (KCCB) expressed concern over the rising insecurity in the country. In a statement signed by Most Rev. Maurice Muhatia, the Chair of the KCCB, the bishops condemned the reported abductions, disappearances, torture, and killings of Kenyans, including the growing incidence of murders targeting women.
“We are appalled by the blatant recurring incidents of abductions, disappearances, torture, and killings of our fellow Kenyans. We also decry the increasing murder of women. This has caused great consternation, anger, and disgust. Many families are still grappling with the loss of their children who were brutally killed, injured, or went missing following what is referred to as ‘GenZ demonstrations’ in June 2024,” the bishops stated.
In response to the bishops’ concerns, Inspector General Kanja provided detailed statistics regarding the security situation following the protests in mid-2024. He highlighted the challenges faced by law enforcement, including the violent demonstrations against the Finance Bill, which resulted in significant losses and casualties.
“The demonstrations witnessed in the country from June 18 to July 2024 resulted in massive losses, ranging from death to the destruction of property and livelihoods. The NPS recorded 495 injuries to police officers, 347 injuries to civilians, 42 civilian fatalities, and 69 cases of serious damage to government vehicles,” Kanja explained.
Further addressing the issue of missing persons, Kanja confirmed that 57 cases were reported, with 22 individuals found alive, 6 found dead, and 29 still unaccounted for. He reassured the public that intensive efforts are underway to trace the missing persons.
“During the protests, NPS made 1,552 arrests countrywide, and we continue to investigate all leads to ensure that justice is served,” Kanja added.
In response to the growing concern over the murder of women, Kanja stated that NPS has recorded 97 deaths related to gender-based violence over the past three months. However, he assured the public that the police have made significant progress in investigating these cases, identifying culprits, and prosecuting them.
“In most of the cases reported, we have effectively investigated, identified the culprits, and arraigned them before the courts,” Kanja confirmed.
To further address the rise in missing persons and gender-based violence, the NPS has established a specialized Missing Persons Unit within the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI). Additionally, Gender Desks have been set up at police stations nationwide to ensure a swift and sensitive response to cases of gender-based violence.
“Gender Desks at police stations are on high alert to deal swiftly with any cases of gender-based violence,” said Kanja, underscoring the NPS’s commitment to addressing these issues with urgency.
The National Police Service continues to call on all Kenyans to stay vigilant, cooperate with law enforcement agencies, and support efforts aimed at maintaining peace and security throughout the country.
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