NPS denies link between duty roster and arrests of Anti-Abduction protestors

In a statement, NPS spokesperson Resila Onyango said that the roster, detailing the names and contacts of police officers at a police station in Nairobi, only offered records and operational processes to keep officers accountable. 

She added that a roster contains phone contacts to facilitate easy access for any law enforcement officer in the course of their duties. 

The NPS urged Kenyans to dismiss information that is intended for incitement and misinformation. 

"Duty rosters generally offer a framework for records and documentation of police administrative and operational processes; promote and enhance accountability of the Service; and ensure that all officers at the station are apprised on the relevant contacts in the event they require assistance in the course of their duties," read part of the statement. 

"As such, the said duty roster had absolutely nothing to do with any general or specific task in relation to demonstrations. We therefore urge the public to refrain from spreading misinformation intended at public incitement. The National Police Service reaffirms its steadfast commitment to serve and protect all Kenyans."

The NPS has been accused of using brute force to curtail unarmed protestors, actions which have been condemned across all quarters. 

The much-anticipated protests saw human rights defenders and families whose relatives have gone missing took to the streets to demand the government to release all individuals held incommunicado unconditionally. 

This saw Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah and 22 other demonstrators arrested along Aga Khan Walk in Nairobi. The courts later released them on a Ksh.1,000 bond each.