Interior CS Kipchumba Murkomen/FILEInterior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has announced plans to issue a formal policy guiding police on the use of force and firearms.
Speaking on Tuesday, Murkomen said the directive will be published in the Kenya Gazette on Friday, in line with Article 245(4) of the Constitution.
“Cognisant of the ongoing debate and national concerns on the use of force by security personnel, I will issue a policy directive to the Inspector General of Police on Friday,” he said.
The use of firearms by law enforcement has been under public scrutiny in recent weeks, following protests that turned violent.
Murkomen warned that any officer accused of unlawful use of force will face legal action.
He added that investigations will be conducted into any excesses, and appropriate measures taken against those found culpable.
His remarks come after nationwide demonstrations on June 25 and July 7, which left 42 people dead and nearly 600 injured.
Of those injured, 496 were police officers, according to Murkomen.
“This is unacceptable. One life lost is one too many. We mourn every life lost and extend our deepest sympathies to the affected families,” he said.
Accompanied by Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo and top police commanders, Murkomen said the protests saw public facilities and private businesses attacked, with some police stations, government offices, vehicles, and even a hospital targeted.
He described the destruction of 16 police stations and posts as a “disturbing trend” that threatens public safety.
“When a police station is destroyed, it leaves communities vulnerable. It is our duty as the government to ensure that citizens remain safe and secure,” he said.
Police have since arrested nearly 1,500 people nationwide over alleged involvement in the unrest.
Charges range from robbery with violence and arson to malicious damage to property and attacks on critical infrastructure.
About 50 individuals are under investigation by the Serious Crimes Investigations Unit, while 71 cases are being handled by the Anti-Terrorism Police Unit.
Murkomen also highlighted incidents in Nakuru, Eldoret and Kitengela where businesses were looted and hospitals disrupted.
Two suspects arrested over an incident at Kitengela Sub-County Hospital were granted bail, which the CS termed “unacceptable”.
“In hospitals, we seek refuge at our most vulnerable moments. To infringe on this sanctity is a grave offence,” he said.
Commending security agencies for their response, Murkomen said intelligence-led operations helped prevent further attacks on key infrastructure.
He urged Kenyans to pursue grievances through legal and constitutional channels and cautioned against violence.
“We cannot normalise the loss of lives and livelihoods or the threat to peace and stability,” he said.
“To those inciting or funding such acts, take note: this reign of terror and impunity must end.”
