IPOA to probe police actions during Nakuru drama festival
"Officers drawn from the KPS, APS, and DCI were present at the scene, some dressed in uniform while others wore plain clothes. They were equipped with firearms and batons."
The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has reported that the National Police Service (NPS) deployed three distinct categories of law enforcement officers during the National Drama Festivals held in Nakuru on Thursday, April 10.
In an official communication addressing the behavior of police during the event, IPOA Chairperson Ahmed Issack confirmed that personnel from the Kenya Police Service (KPS), the Administration Police Service (APS), and the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) were assigned to oversee the activities involving secondary school students.
"The entrance was heavily guarded, with only accredited individuals being permitted access,” the statement noted.
"Officers drawn from the KPS, APS, and DCI were present at the scene, some dressed in uniform while others wore plain clothes. They were equipped with firearms and batons."
In Kenya, the Administration Police Service (APS) is primarily tasked with securing the country's borders, conducting operations to combat livestock theft, and safeguarding key infrastructure.
On the other hand, the Kenya Police Service (KPS) is responsible for maintaining public order, enforcing the law, ensuring public safety, and preventing criminal activities.
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) primarily focuses on probing serious offenses such as fraud, murder, and cyber-related crimes.
Meanwhile, the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) raised concerns over the deployment of a large number of police officers to handle a group of harmless students who had assembled for their annual drama festival, a routine event.
Reports surfaced indicating the use of force against journalists, teachers, and members of the public.
In response, the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) announced that it had initiated an investigation into the claims.
"IPOA urges the police to act with professionalism when managing public order. IPOA will continue to monitor the situation closely and carry out impartial investigations," the statement read in part.
Additionally, the institution stated that disciplinary measures would be imposed on all officers found responsible.