Police officers calming protestors during a riot in Nairobi on Thursday March 30, 2023
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A police officer died from injuries that he sustained during the Azimio la Umoja mass action on Thursday, March 30, 2023.
The officer passed away at a hospital in Kisumu where he was undergoing treatment for the injuries. He had been admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU).
While confirming the death of the officer, the Inspector General of Police Japhet Koome noted that the deceased was part of a contingent of police officers that worked to repulse demonstrators in Kisumu City.
"One Police Officer in Kisumu succumbed to injuries sustained while on duty," IG Koome stated.
NPS Inspector General Japhet Koome addressing officers in Turkana County on February 14, 2023.
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NPS
The IG further divulged that at least 20 officers, who were working alongside the deceased, were seriously injured during the day-long protests.
"Property whose value is yet to be determined was destroyed as hooligans masquerading as protestors invaded the private property," Koome noted in a statement.
The National Police Service explained that investigations into the wanton looting and destruction of property are underway in various towns, including Nairobi.
"We commend all Officers for their commitment, resilience, and acting within the confines of the law in their effort to quell the chaos yesterday.
"National Police Service assures the public of their security as well as safety and remains focused on executing our mandate to serve and protect," IG Koome stated.
The Inspector General also called on protesters to adhere to the law, warning that the right to picket does not give the demonstrators any right to destroy property, cause a disturbance, or attack Police Officers as witnessed during demonstrations.
"We wish to state that all internationally accepted policing strategies and within the law will be used by all Police Officers to ensure our beautiful country remains safe and secure for all," Koome stated.
The Police IG explained that all efforts will be put to protect life and property and action will be taken against those who destroy property.
"National Police Service assures the public of their security as well as safety and remains focused on executing our mandate to serve and protect," IG Koome stated.
The Inspector General also called on protesters to adhere to the law, warning that the right to picket does not give the demonstrators any right to destroy property, cause a disturbance, or attack Police Officers as witnessed during demonstrations.
"We wish to state that all internationally accepted policing strategies and within the law will be used by all Police Officers to ensure our beautiful country remains safe and secure for all," Koome stated.
The Police IG explained that all efforts will be put to protect life and property and action will be taken against those who destroy property.
"This will be done without fear or favour regardless of any amount of threats or intimidation," Koome assured while warning that fanning violence during mass action.
Azimio supporters running away with a roadblock stationed at State Lodge Road in Kisumu County on March 10, 2023.
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