Police refute claims linking duty roster to arrest of protesters
The Service has faced criticism for alleged heavy-handedness in handling unarmed protesters, a practice that has drawn condemnation from various quarters.
The National Police Service (NPS) has denied allegations linking a duty roster circulating online to the arrest of protesters during anti-abduction demonstrations held on Monday, December 30, 2024.
In a statement, NPS spokesperson Resila Onyango clarified that the roster, which included names and contacts of officers at a Nairobi police station, was solely meant to document administrative and operational processes to ensure accountability within the force.
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“The roster provides a framework for records and documentation of police administrative and operational processes; promotes and enhances accountability of the Service; and ensures that all officers at the station are apprised of the relevant contacts in case they need assistance during their duties,” Onyango said.
She further explained that such rosters typically include contact information to facilitate seamless communication among officers and had no connection to any plans targeting demonstrators.
Onyango called on Kenyans to disregard misinformation aimed at inciting the public.
“As such, the said duty roster had absolutely nothing to do with any general or specific task in relation to demonstrations. We, therefore, urge the public to refrain from spreading misinformation intended for public incitement. The National Police Service reaffirms its steadfast commitment to serve and protect all Kenyans,” NPS added.
The Service has faced criticism for alleged heavy-handedness in handling unarmed protesters, a practice that has drawn condemnation from various quarters.
The demonstrations, led by human rights defenders and families of individuals who have gone missing, called on the government to release all persons held incommunicado.
During the protests, Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah and 22 others were arrested along Aga Khan Walk in Nairobi. However, they were later released on a Sh1,000 cash bail each.
The High Court rejected a request to detain the activists for 14 days with Principal Magistrate Rose Ndombi granting their release.
The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) and the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) Central Division had sought the extended remand to allow further investigations into allegations of incitement to disobedience, creating disturbances, and participating in unlawful protests.
