The Inspector General of Police, Douglas Kanja, has ordered an investigation into alleged police misconduct at the National Drama Festivals held in Nakuru County.
In a statement signed by Police Spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga on Thursday, April 10, IG Kanja directed the Internal Affairs Unit of the National Police Service (NPS) to probe the matter and present a report within 21 days.
Nyaga also noted that the issue was under investigation by the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) and other independent bodies.
According to the police spokesperson, the police service, as one of the key national security organs, is mandated to detect and prevent crime and to ensure safety in accordance with the rule of law, while upholding and protecting human rights.
However, Nyaga defended the government's decision to deploy security officers at the drama festivals, stating that the police were deployed to provide security and ensure the success of the festivals.
He revealed that the officers were deployed after the NPS received credible intelligence indicating that some individuals were planning to disrupt the event.
"On Thursday, 10 April 2025, we received credible intelligence that some individuals were planning to disrupt the event and, as a responsible security organ, we put in place elaborate contingency plans to thwart such acts," Nyaga said.
"Nevertheless, there have been allegations of misconduct by police officers deployed to provide security at the venue. The Inspector General of Police has instructed the Internal Affairs Unit to immediately investigate the matter and present a report within 21 days," he added.
The statement by the police service comes a day after police officers were accused of reportedly lobbing tear gas canisters to disperse a crowd that was protesting the treatment accorded to the Butere Girls High School students.
The learners who were part of the crowd were forced to scamper for safety, with videos of the scene shared online showing the students rushing into the bus.
The incident quickly attracted the attention of several Kenyans, including members of the political class, who criticised the Ministry of Interior for failing in its duties by mishandling the learners who had gone to perform their play, "Echoes of War."
In particular, Wiper party leader Kalonzo Musyoka on Thursday afternoon condemned the police for firing tear gas near students, praising the "brave" girls for declining to perform.
“How does this regime justify lobbing tear gas at young girls from Butere Girls who declined to stage their play 'Echoes of War' at the National Drama Festival?” Kalonzo questioned.
