JKUAT: Interior CS Matiangi says action to be taken within 24 hours

Interior CS Fred Matiang’i has ordered that action be taken on police officers found culpable of using excessive force on students at the Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT).

In a terse statement issued, the CS said he had observed the events at JKUAT on Monday evening with profound concern.

“I have spoken to the IG (Inspector General) and we both agree that firm and decisive action shall be taken against any officer who used excessive force, within the next 24 hours,” he said.

The CS further noted that the use of force by police is clearly outlined in the National Police Standing Orders.

On Tuesday, the National Police Service also acknowledged that the video portrays use of excessive force by police.

NPS reiterated that officers are not mandated to use punitive actions in their line of duty but to maintain law and order through correct procedures.

”Following the unfortunate incident, the Internal Affairs Unit has been directed to commence investigations and make recommendations for action within 24 hours,” the statement reads.

The statements come hours after videos emerged on social media showing police officers at JKUAT assaulting students who were protesting against insecurity at the campus.

In one of the videos, three officers are seen beating up an unarmed student on the ground.

They are seen kicking him on the head twice as he raises his hands above his head trying to protect himself from their blows.

Another batch of officers, in a second video, are seen breaking down the gates of a students apartment and then firing tear gas canisters to smoke them out.

In yet a third video, a lone policeman is seen running outside one of the hostels as he fires at students presumed to be ahead of him.