Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of the Kenya Police Service Eliud Lagat has stressed the need to prioritise mental health among officers, saying it is key to efficient and effective service delivery.
He said during an unannounced visit to Narok Police Station on Wednesday, September 3, 2025, accompanied by senior officers. The visit was part of efforts to transform police stations and other service areas into centres of excellence.
He was received by Narok Central Sub-County Police Commander John Momanyi, OCS Erick Opiyo, and Base Commander Julius Phoghisio. During the familiarisation tour, the DIG inspected the report office, cells, traffic offices, and DCI offices, pointing out areas that required improvement.
Afterwards, he held a meeting with section heads where he praised officers for their commitment to duty despite challenges. He also urged teamwork among departments in fighting crime and stressed that cases such as land invasions must be handled strictly within the law.
The DIG warned officers against corruption, saying stern action would be taken against anyone found guilty. He also underlined the importance of officers executing their mandate within the law and reaffirmed the police service’s commitment to improving working conditions and welfare.
Lagat gave special focus to mental health, a long-standing issue in the service. He said better mental health support would improve service delivery and protect officers from burnout.
Police officers welcomed the visit, saying such engagements help improve communication between the top command and field officers. They assured him of their commitment to enhancing service delivery.
Mental health has remained a growing concern in the police service, with several suicide cases reported over the years. The National Police Service has introduced chaplaincy and counselling services, partnered with mental health experts, and created trauma debriefing programmes, but suicides and violence among officers continue to raise alarm. Lawmakers and experts have called for more funding, better human resource management, and stronger support systems to address issues like PTSD, depression, and work-related stress.
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