A recent report by the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has exposed shortcomings in the preparedness of police officers deployed to handle Gen-Z protests.
The monitoring report, released on Monday, showed that police officers lacked the necessary equipment and readiness, contributing to the high number of deaths and injuries among both protesters and police officers.
The protests, which initially began peacefully, often escalated into violence.
According to IPOA, this was partly due to the lack of preparation by the National Police Service (NPS), which found itself overwhelmed by the large crowds and chaotic situations.
The report indicated that many officers were ill-equipped with insufficient riot gear and inadequate resources such as teargas, particularly in areas like Karatina Town, Nairobi CBD, and Kitengela Town.
"In several instances, police conduct was restrained, but in others, the use of force led to injuries and fatalities. Police officers often deployed in unmarked vehicles, wore civilian clothes, and carried out arrests without proper identification, contributing to public distrust," the report stated.
IPOA's findings also pointed to the use of hooded and masked officers during the protests, which fueled further tension between police and protesters.
The lack of proper identification, including missing badges and name tags, was a key issue in many of these cases, raising concerns about transparency and accountability within the police force.
The report also revealed that the police had a generally negative attitude towards the protesters and their right to assemble peacefully, which further exacerbated tensions.
Human rights activists and organisations faulted the police for using excessive force during the demonstrations that saw over 20 youths die.
IPOA observed that officers were often overwhelmed by the sheer size of the protesting crowds, especially in Kitengela, where they struggled to control the situation.
IPOA has since forwarded investigation files on several incidents to the Director of Public Prosecutions, while others remain under investigation.
The report highlighted several key recommendations for future policing of protests, emphasizing the need for the police to adhere to Article 37 of the Constitution, which protects the right to peaceful assembly.
IPOA urged the Inspector General of Police to facilitate lawful protests and ensure that officers respect the constitutional rights of protesters without interference.
