Inspector General (IG) of Police Japhet Kanja has strongly dismissed claims that the National Police Service (NPS) is involved in abducting Kenyans. Speaking on Friday evening during an interview on NTV, Kanja emphasised that the police operate strictly within the confines of the law and are committed to upholding it fully.
He stated that the duties of police officers are clearly defined by the Constitution, and abduction is not among them. “We do not have police officers abducting Kenyans. This service and its members understand their duties very clearly, and in our duty, abduction is not part of it,” Kanja affirmed.
The IG further noted that any officer found to be involved in unlawful acts, including abductions, would face immediate and appropriate disciplinary action in accordance with the law. His comments come amid a surge in reported abductions, particularly targeting government critics and human rights activists. According to reports, since June last year, 82 abductions have been recorded, with 29 individuals still missing as of mid-2025.
Kanja also addressed concerns surrounding Collins Jumaisi, who reportedly escaped police custody under unclear circumstances. The IG confirmed that the police had taken action against officers found responsible for facilitating the escape and that a fresh manhunt had been launched to locate Jumaisi.
“We know what transpired in our station, and appropriate action was taken against those who were deemed to have allowed Jumaisi to escape our custody. I know we are going to lay our hands on Jumaisi, and he must pay for his crimes,” Kanja said.
The IG’s remarks aim to reassure the public that the National Police Service remains accountable and committed to lawful policing, especially during a period marked by increased scrutiny of security operations and allegations of misconduct.
