A Dutch national who is set to be deported, barely 48 hours after his initial arrest has pleaded for forgiveness after a video of him verbally abusing and spitting at police officers in Diani went viral, sparking outrage across Kenya.
Prior to his transportation to the airport for deportation, the Dutchman addressed the media briefly, where he apologised for his actions but blamed his conduct on a medical condition.
“I had a psychosis episode. I need my medicine. I had not had water and food for a long time,” he said.
The man, identified as Elwin Ter Horst, has since told investigators that he suffers from psychosis, as he faces multiple criminal charges including assault, drug possession, and malicious damage to property.
According to police sources, Ter Horst was arrested after officers responded to a distress call from a Diani hotel, where he allegedly assaulted his Kenyan girlfriend and caused damage to property.
The woman was taken to a local hospital for treatment while the suspect reportedly locked himself inside their hotel room before being subdued by police.
Once in custody, the Dutch national became increasingly aggressive. In a widely circulated video, he can be seen shirtless and shouting at officers inside the Diani Police Station, calling them derogatory names and spitting in the direction of a male officer behind the desk.
Despite the provocation, the officers maintained remarkable composure — a reaction that has been widely praised by Kenyans online.
“The calm and restraint shown by our officers under such abuse is commendable. We are proud of their professionalism,” a senior police official said anonymously.
During a post-arrest search, officers recovered a white powdery substance suspected to be narcotics. The substance has been forwarded to the Government Chemist for testing. Investigations are ongoing to determine the nature of the drugs and whether the suspect was under their influence during the incident.
Police confirmed that the suspect faces multiple charges, including assault causing actual bodily harm, malicious damage to property, possession of suspected narcotics, and disorderly conduct within a police station.
Immigration officials have also indicated that deportation proceedings are being prepared once the criminal process concludes.
