Police condemn attacks on officers and woman in Nairobi

The National Police Service has strongly condemned a series of attacks targeting police officers and a woman in Nairobi.

In a statement issued on Saturday, police spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga said the incidents, all reported within the last 24 hours in different parts of Nairobi, were deeply concerning and were under active investigation.

“The National Police Service strongly condemns three incidents reported within the past 24 hours in the Nairobi region,” Nyaga said in the statement.

The first incident occurred on Friday in the Mwiki area of Kasarani Subcounty, where a woman was reportedly attacked and set on fire after being doused with what investigators suspect was petrol.

According to the police, preliminary investigations suggest the attack may have been politically motivated.

“In the first incident, which occurred yesterday, May 16, 2026, in the Mwiki area of Kasarani Subcounty, a woman is fighting for her life at Kenyatta National Hospital after being doused with what is believed to be petrol and set alight,” Nyaga said.

“Preliminary investigations suggest that the attack was linked to the woman’s political views, which allegedly displeased her attackers. The matter is being investigated by a specialised team from the DCI Headquarters.”

The second incident involved an altercation between a motorist and a traffic police officer in Nairobi’s Embakasi area. A video of the confrontation has been circulating widely on social media.

Nyaga confirmed that the motorist involved had been identified and due process was underway.

The third incident took place in Lang’ata, where crew members of a commuter bus allegedly attacked a traffic police officer who was enforcing the law.

Police said those involved were swiftly arrested and the bus impounded.

The police spokesperson stressed that officers are mandated to enforce the law professionally and impartially, regardless of political or social affiliations.

“NPS condemns all three incidents in the strongest possible terms. Political intolerance has no place in competitive politics, our democracy, or our laws,” he said.

“Furthermore, any attack-whether verbal, physical, or otherwise- against a police officer is an affront to the rule of law and undermines the integrity and dignity of the National Police Service.”

Nyaga also called on members of the public to support officers carrying out their duties, saying mutual respect between citizens and law enforcement agencies remains essential for a peaceful society.

“National Police Service commends the officers involved for their restraint, professionalism, and composure in the face of intense provocation,” he said.

“We continue to remind the public to support lawfully engaged officers who remain dedicated to their mandate, while calling for enhanced community engagement and collaboration. Mutual respect between the police and the public remains fundamental to a peaceful and orderly society.”

The service warned that firm legal action would be taken against individuals found culpable of attacking officers or obstructing police duties.

“The Service will not hesitate to take firm and appropriate lawful action against anyone who undermines police authority or attempts to impede officers in the discharge of their duties,” Nyaga warned.

Police also appealed to members of the public with information regarding the incidents to report to the nearest police station or use toll-free numbers 999 and 911.

Nyaga reaffirmed the service’s commitment to protecting lives, maintaining law and order and upholding professionalism in policing across the country.