Inspector General of Police Japhet Koome has condemned acts of violence witnessed during Thursday’s anti-government protests by the Azimio la Umoja One Kenya coalition party.
In a statement issued on Friday, the IG condemned the attacks, which he claimed killed one police officer in Kisumu and injured 20 others.
Koome revealed that the officer, who has since been identified as Corporal Ben Oduor, succumbed to injuries while undergoing treatment at the Aga Khan Hospital in Kisumu on Thursday night.
“The National Police Service strongly condemns the acts of violence and vandalism witnessed yesterday, Thursday, March 30, 2023 during the unlawful demonstrations by Azimio la Urnoja-One Kenya Alliance supporters in Nairobi and other parts of the Country,” stated Koome.
“As a result of yesterday, demonstrations, one police officer in Kisumu succumbed to injuries sustained while on duty, 20 officers were seriously injured as they repulsed violent demonstrators.”
According to Koome, the protests also led to property theft and damage in Nairobi and other regions of the country.
He denounced the violence, which he claimed was carried out by hooligans posing as protesters who broke into homes and attacked bystanders.
Koome noted that investigations into the robbery instances are ongoing, and anyone involved will face the harshest legal penalties.
“Property whose value is yet to be determined was destroyed as hooligans masquerading as protestors invaded private property. Investigations into incidents of robbery that have been reported are underway and those culpable will be prosecuted to the full extent of the law,” Koome said.
The IG further reassured the public of police commitment to protect them and their property, consequently warning protestors against violating the law.
“National Police Service assures the public of their security and safety, and remain focused executing our mandate to serve and protect,” stated Koome.
“It is worth noting 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 yesterday, demos. In conclusion, 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.”
“All effort will be put to protect life and property. This will be done without fear or favour regardless of any amount of threats or intimidation,” he added.
