Recently promoted police leaders held their first meeting with top commanders to discuss security issues, including the Gen Z protests planned for tomorrow.
Sources told the media that some criminals and hired thugs, possibly linked to certain politicians, might use the protests to cause trouble and steal.
Deputy Inspector General Gilbert Masengeli, who is also the acting Inspector General of Police, met with Kenya Police Service’s Eliud Lagat and other senior officers at the National Police Training Campus in Embakasi.
They decided that there would be a heavy police presence and that the protests would be allowed.
Mohammed Amin, the head of the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), also attended and will help with covert operations.
Security agencies have been told to use all available resources, including aerial support, to keep order.
Masengeli stressed that both secret and visible operations will be used to prevent criminals from joining the protests.
Investigations are ongoing to find any serious criminals who might try to exploit the protests.
“Police need to tell the difference between real Gen Z protesters and those who want to cause trouble,” Masengeli said.
The police have been criticized for how they handled previous protests.
Civil groups and international observers say the youth’s concerns are valid and need to be addressed.
Separate meetings of unit and formation commanders also took place in Nairobi to plan for the protests and other security issues.
This follows a July 31 meeting where Internal Security Principal Secretary Dr. Raymond Omollo talked about the need for a more active and visible approach to handling public unrest.
Omollo stressed the importance of good law enforcement and listening to public concerns.
This meeting reviewed regional law and order and coordination efforts.
Masengeli recently replaced Japhet Koome, who resigned on July 12 due to criticism over his handling of protests.
Former DIG KPS Douglas Kanja has been proposed as Koome’s replacement and is waiting for parliamentary approval.
The new police leadership faces many challenges, including protests, rising crime, and high unemployment.
President William Ruto has called for thorough investigations into police misconduct and ordered that anyone not involved in crimes be released.
He also urged police to act professionally and follow the Constitution. Junior officers are set to get a salary increase of at least Sh4,000.
The government estimates it needs Sh108 billion for police, prison, and National Youth Service reforms, but lack of funds could delay these changes.
On July 31, the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) warned that senior police commanders could face charges if investigations don’t identify officers responsible for shooting protesters.
IPOA chairperson Anne Makori reported that Nairobi police commander Adamson Bungei and other senior officers have been questioned.
IPOA has recorded about 60 deaths and over 300 injuries and has urged the release of those without strong cases, as President Ruto directed.
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