As the National Police Service nears the start of the nationwide police recruitment exercise, the Inspector General of Police, Douglas Kanja, has warned against any form of malpractice.
In a statement on Thursday, October 2, Kanja revealed that the police service had established clear selection criteria to curb any form of corruption during the 7-day exercise.
While calling for nationwide participation, the IG stated that eligible candidates must meet the requisite academic and physical qualifications for shortlisting.
"The candidates must meet educational standards, pass rigorous assessments and demonstrate the physical and mental aptitude required for policing," Kanja explained.
He urged members of the public to be cautious during the process and not to fall prey to impostors or corrupt individuals promising "help" in exchange for bribes.
Kanja warned that offering money to recruiting officers, middlemen, or anyone claiming influence will not only disqualify the candidate but also lead to legal consequences.
Additionally, Kanja stated that presenting fake documents, such as forged certificates, medical records, or identification, would result in the immediate rejection and possible prosecution of the candidate per the law.
"To my fellow officers involved in the exercise, I strongly call on you to uphold the highest professional standards. Any engagement in malpractices will have dire consequences, including dismissal and criminal charges," the police IG warned.
"Be informed that we will be watching you closely. Oversight teams will conduct impromptu visits to ensure accountability and deter misconduct," he added.
The IG further called on Kenyans to be keen and immediately report any form of irregularity or corruption they witness during the exercise for prompt investigations.
Kanja's statement comes barely a day before the start of the recruitment exercise, which formally kicks off on October 3 and runs to October 9 and targets about 10,000 individuals to be employed as police constables.
The exercise is expected to take place in 416 centres across the country. An applicant must be a Kenyan citizen between the ages of 18 and 28 and must have a minimum grade of D- in the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE).
