President William Ruto on Wednesday, November 15, urged security officers to prioritize ordinary Kenyans amid the ongoing crackdown on criminals.
Ruto who spoke during a meeting with regional police chiefs noted that ordinary Kenyans were the most vulnerable and prone to attacks by criminal gangs.
He, as such, called on police officers to protect them rather than terrorise them through arbitrary arrests or harassment.
“Protect especially the ordinary people, the rest we can protect ourselves but for them they are vulnerable. Do not go harassing them,” he stated
In addition, the President directed all officers to be ready to use every means at their disposal to contain the security threats posed by gangs and bandits in different parts of the country.
He asked law enforcers not to hesitate to use force on armed criminals who endanger their lives.
"We have given you the instruments to ensure that we deal with criminals decisively, firmly and conclusively in accordance with the law and the constitution," he stated.
“Do not wait until our officers are killed so that you can act. If any officer is in danger of criminals, they must use their firearms to deal with criminals.”
Ruto further reaffirmed his commitment to supporting the police officers in their mandate.
In addition, Ruto reminded the officers of the need to ensure independence in their operations. He insisted that they must serve all Kenyans fairly, irrespective of their political or ethnic affiliation
The meeting was part of the series of meetings held to deliberate on security concerns in Nairobi and its environs.
On Tuesday, Interior Cabinet Secretary Prof Kindiki Kithure held a similar meeting with police bosses where he reiterated the government's determination to improve their terms of service.
