NPS said the incident occurred on October 28 involving a suspect identified as Elwin Ter Horst.The National Police Service has praised its officers for displaying restraint and professionalism in the face of extreme provocation by a Dutch national at Diani police station in Kwale County.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the NPS said the incident occurred on October 28 involving a suspect identified as Elwin Ter Horst.
A video that has since gone viral shows Horst confronting police officers, using abusive and demeaning language, and at one point blowing his nose towards one of the officers before smudging the mucus on the officer's trousers with his hand.
The police said the suspect’s actions amounted to “crass, despicable, and utterly unacceptable behaviour” towards officers lawfully performing their duties.
The statement added that Horst will be arraigned in court to face appropriate legal action.
“The National Police Service strongly condemns this act in the strongest possible terms, emphasising that such conduct cannot and will not be tolerated under any circumstances,” spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga said.
NPS described the assault as an affront to the rule of law and an attack on the integrity and dignity of the service.
It reaffirmed its commitment to professionalism and accountability, noting that the incident tested but also demonstrated the maturity of the officers involved.
“The Service commends the officers involved for their restraint, professionalism, and composure in the face of extreme provocation,” the statement said.
“Their conduct reflects the high level of discipline and maturity expected of law enforcement officers and serves as a model for others to emulate.”
NPS linked the officers’ calm handling of the situation to the ongoing police reforms that emphasise discipline, human rights, and modern policing standards.
The reforms, it noted, have strengthened accountability mechanisms, improved welfare and infrastructure, and promoted community-oriented policing.
“The restraint demonstrated by the officers highlights the remarkable progress achieved through ongoing police reforms,” Nyaga added.
“These reforms continue to enhance professionalism, accountability, and respect for human rights within the service.”
While assuring the public of its commitment to uphold the law and safeguard all persons in Kenya, the NPS warned that it would take firm and lawful action against anyone who attacks or obstructs police officers while on duty.
“The service will not hesitate to take firm and lawful action against any individual who undermines police authority or interferes with officers discharging their duties,” NPS stated.
The NPS urged the public to cooperate with law enforcement and to channel any grievances through official mechanisms rather than resorting to abusive conduct.
It emphasised that mutual respect between the police and the public is fundamental to a peaceful and orderly society.
The service reaffirmed its mission to “serve, protect and maintain law and order across the country with professionalism and integrity.”
