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The National Police Service (NPS) has categorically denied claims that its officers are involved in the recent wave of abductions targeting social media influencers and other individuals.
In a press statement released on December 26, 2024, Inspector General Douglas Kanja Kirocho emphasised that the constitutional mandate of the police is "not to abduct, but arrest criminal offenders."
The clarification comes amidst growing public outcry over the disappearance of figures like Gideon Kibet, a prominent cartoonist, and Peter Muteti, a social media influencer.
Families and opposition leaders have accused security forces of being behind the abductions, prompting the NPS to issue a response.
Police commitment to due process
"The procedure as per the Service Standing Orders informs that all arrests be recorded in the Occurrence Book for subsequent arraignment in court," the statement read. The NPS further assured the public that any suspects who fail to meet procedural thresholds are released from custody.
The police reiterated their commitment to due process, stating there is "no police station in the country that is holding the reported abductees".
READ: IPOA deploys rapid response teams after abductions in several counties
The statement also underscored that Kenya's democratic framework guarantees freedom of expression, albeit with responsibilities.
Freedom not only comes with certain limitations but should at all times be exercised with utmost responsibility.
Investigations underway
The NPS has confirmed that the matter is under investigation by the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) and other independent bodies. The statement appealed to the public to provide any relevant information about missing persons.
"We appeal to anybody with relevant information about any missing person to report to the nearest police station," the Inspector General urged.
This move aligns with IPOA's deployment of rapid response teams to investigate the abductions and hold any culpable officers accountable.
Warning against misinformation
In the statement, the NPS expressed concern over the spread of "false, fabricated, malicious, distasteful, misinformed and unverified information" aimed at tarnishing its reputation.
The police appealed to the public to refrain from propagating such claims and to allow independent investigations to take their course.
The abductions have raised significant concerns about the safety of outspoken individuals and the state of freedom of expression in Kenya.
The statement by the NPS seeks to quell public anxiety while reaffirming its commitment to serving and protecting all Kenyans.