The Inspector General of Police, Douglas Kanja, has reassured the public that the National Police Service (NPS) has heightened security in all parts of the country following a surge in cases of femicide, abductions, and extrajudicial killings.
In response to a statement issued by the Catholic Bishops on Thursday, November 14, with respect to recent abductions, IG Kanja revealed that a specialised Missing Persons Unit (MPU) had been established at the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) to deal with cases of abductions and extrajudicial killings.
Kanja further added that the police service had recorded 97 femicide deaths in the past three months. According to the police boss, in most of the cases reported, the police service had already completed investigations, identified those involved in the murder of young girls and women, and arraigned them before the court.
“All cases of abductions are being investigated by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) and we are making good progress in that direction,” Kanja Kenyans even as he disputed the allegations by the catholic bishops.
“Gender Desks at police stations nationwide are on high alert to deal swiftly with any cases of gender-based violence,” the police boss added.
In repose to the killings witnessed during the anti-government that took place in June and July this year, Kanja announced that all cases of deaths where police officers were implicated were being probed by both the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) and the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP).
He disclosed that during the anti-government demonstrations, the country suffered massive losses ranging from death to destruction of property and livelihoods and that from the unfolding, NPS recorded 495 injuries to police officers, 347 injuries to civilians, and 42 civilian fatalities.
IG Kanja's clarification followed hours after the Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops (KCCB) criticised President William Ruto’s administration over allegations of rampant corruption, extrajudicial killings, over-taxation, and unkept promises.
Addressing the press in Ruaraka Sub-County, Nairobi County on Thursday, November 14, the bishops accused the government of violating human rights such as denying freedom of speech.
According to the bishops, they were shocked by the government’s failure to resolve the recurrent cases of abductions forced disappearances, and extra-judicial killings.
The church leaders further noted that the decision by the government to remain silent on cases of abductions and murder particularly of young girls and women resulted in great consternation, anger, and disgust among Kenyans.
“Many families are grappling with the loss of their children who were brutally killed and went missing following what is referred to as the Gen Z demonstrations in June 2024. Many of them had raised concerns about rampant corruption, who is behind these abductions?” the bishops noted.
This is What Killed Kariobangi North MCA Joel Munuve News Just In
