Retun of 'Special' police squads: KNHCR condemns police action during Azimio protests

The Commission said the torture by security agents during anti-government protests by the opposition has been evident as documented by mainstream media and images on social media showing uniformed and plain-clothes police officers in wanton and brutal attacks on defenceless members of the public. 

The Commission has urged the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) to hasten investigations into the allegations of torture and ensure perpetrators face appropriate legal consequences.

“The commission has received reports of alleged abductions by persons believed to be police officers in the recent past….these events are worrying as a reminder of our past where the security agencies had special squads that would affect extrajudicial activities,” KNCHR Chairperson Roseline Odede said.

KNCHR remarks come amid similar condemnation of the police by other human rights bodies and civil societies.

Azimio One Kenya Coalition Party leaders last week alleged that the government was using a 'killer squad' dubbed Operation Support Unit (OSU) which they claim was used to harm them and protesters.