The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has strongly condemned the increasing cases of violence and aggression directed towards officers of the National Police Service (NPS), terming the attacks as a grave threat to law and order.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, IPOA Chairperson Ahmed Issack Hassan expressed deep concern over what he described as “unacceptable treatment of police officers” by some members of the public. He cited recent incidents at State House, Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), and Kiganjo Police Station in Gatundu, Kiambu County, as alarming examples of the escalating hostility.

According to the Authority, the situation at Kiganjo Police Station was particularly distressing. A section of the facility was reportedly torched, leading to the destruction of key police infrastructure and severely hampering law enforcement operations in the region. Several officers were injured, and others lost their lives in the violence.

“The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) is deeply concerned about the rising violence and unacceptable treatment directed towards members of the National Police Service (NPS) by some members of the public. Recent incidents have highlighted this troubling trend, including the disturbing events at State House, Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), and Kiganjo Police Station in Gatundu, Kiambu County, where police officers were subjected to physical assaults, destruction of property, and, tragically, loss of life,” the statement read in part.

“Notably, at the Kiganjo Police Station, a section of the facility was torched, resulting in the destruction of critical police infrastructure and significantly compromising law enforcement operations in the area. These acts undermine public safety efforts and threaten the rule of law.”

IPOA has urged members of the public to exercise restraint, professionalism, and respect when interacting with law enforcement personnel. The oversight body emphasized that while citizens have a right to demand accountability from the police, such grievances should be pursued through lawful and peaceful means.

The Authority also extended condolences to the families of the officers who lost their lives in the line of duty, assuring that it will continue to monitor investigations into the incidents closely.

“IPOA urges members of the public to exercise restraint and professionalism when engaging with law enforcement officers. The Authority extends its heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased police officers during this difficult time and calls upon the security agencies to act swiftly in bringing to justice those responsible for the arson attack,” IPOA stated.

The watchdog cautioned that continued hostility towards the police could derail ongoing reforms aimed at promoting accountability, discipline, and professionalism within the National Police Service.

IPOA concluded by reaffirming its commitment to upholding both police accountability and the protection of officers from unlawful harm, calling for a renewed partnership between the public and police in maintaining peace and security across the country.

“Attacking police officers not only constitutes lawlessness but also undermines the spirit and intent of ongoing police reforms, risking the erosion of hard-won progress in enhancing accountability and professionalism in policing,” the statement read.

“IPOA therefore urges all members of the public to uphold the rule of law and to seek redress through legally established channels in instances of police misconduct.”