The National Police Service (NPS) has called for mutual respect between the police and members of the public following the viral video of a Dutch national assaulting officers in Diani, Kwale County.
In a statement on Wednesday afternoon, Police Spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga encouraged Kenyans to normalise cooperating with law enforcement officers and channel any grievances through the right channels instead of resorting to violence.
While warning Kenyans against abusive and violent behaviours, Nyaga reiterated that mutual respect between the police and the public remains fundamental to a peaceful and orderly society.
"The Service urges members of the public to cooperate with police officers and to channel any grievances or complaints through accountability mechanisms, rather than resorting to abusive or violent behaviour," the Police Spokesperson stated.
Nyaga's sentiments follow an incident on Tuesday, October 28, in which a Dutch national openly yelled at and assaulted two police officers at Diani Police Station in Kwale County after he was apprehended.
In the video widely shared on social media platforms, the man was captured spitting on the two officers, who remained calm as they watched helplessly, hoping he would cool down.
According to the Police Spokesperson, the Dutchman directed abusive and demeaning language at police officers while they were performing their lawful duties.
Nyaga condemned the act, emphasising that such conduct would not be tolerated under any circumstances, adding that the suspect is expected to be arraigned in court to face charges.
"Any attack, whether verbal, physical, or otherwise, against a police officer constitutes an affront to the rule of law and undermines the integrity and dignity of the National Police Service," said Nyaga.
In his speech, the Police boss lauded the two officers for their restraint and professionalism in the face of extreme provocation, with Nyaga stating that their conduct reflects the high level of discipline among law enforcement officers.
"The restraint demonstrated by the officers highlights the remarkable progress achieved through ongoing police reforms. These reforms continue to enhance professionalism and respect for human rights," the Police boss reiterated.
Meanwhile, the response by the police service comes after Kenyans called on Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja and Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen to swiftly act on the matter.
