Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja has ordered immediate investigations after a viral CCTV video showed armed police officers assaulting young men who were playing pool in Nandi Hills town.
The Inspector General directed the Director of the Internal Affairs Unit (IAU) to begin investigations without delay, describing the incident as a serious violation of human rights, abuse of power, and assault.
“We do not condone such acts in the service,” Kanja said.
The incident, which occurred on Sunday night, January 10, at around 11:51 pm, was captured on CCTV footage that has since circulated widely on social media. The video shows at least 10 armed police officers from Nandi Hills Police Station, some carrying guns and rungus, storming a room where several young men were playing pool.
The officers are seen ordering the youths to lie flat on the ground before beating them as they demand identification documents. During the assault, the officers are heard instructing the victims to place their IDs in their mouths while questioning why they were out late at night. The beating lasts several minutes before the officers leave, ordering the men to remain on the floor.
Nandi Governor Stephen Sang strongly condemned the incident, saying it was unacceptable and unlawful.
“Such conduct is not only unlawful and unacceptable, but also demonstrates a gross violation of the rights and dignity of citizens,” Governor Sang said.
He reminded police officers that the National Police Service exists to protect the public, not to harass, intimidate, or brutalise innocent people. The governor called on the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) to conduct independent investigations, adding that Nandi County would not tolerate police brutality in any form.
He also urged residents to report cases of police harassment, intimidation, or abuse of power.
Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei and Embakasi East MP Babu Owino also condemned the incident, saying the youths were assaulted despite committing no offence.
In a statement posted on X, Cherargei cited Article 244 of the Constitution, which requires the National Police Service to respect human rights, promote professionalism, integrity, and maintain good relations with the public.
“I strongly condemn these acts of police brutality and abuse of human rights against peace-loving youths whose only mistake was playing a pool game,” Cherargei said.
He added that the constitutional mandate of the police had been violated and demanded the immediate interdiction and suspension of the officers involved to allow for independent investigations.
Babu Owino said he was deeply disturbed by the incident and warned against criminalising harmless activities undertaken by young people.
“Let it be stated clearly: playing a game is not a crime. Our youth are already going through a lot in this country, and engaging in games helps them stay away from crime and build talent,” Owino said.
He noted that no law requires Kenyans to carry identification documents at all times, nor does any law prohibit people from playing games at night.
“Even where a law is alleged to have been broken, the police cannot act as arresting officers, prosecutors, and judges at the same time. Kenya is a constitutional democracy founded on the presumption of innocence,” he added.
The two legislators have called on the Inspector General to take firm action against the officers involved and their superiors, including members of the county security team. They also urged IPOA to begin investigations with a view to prosecution.
Advocate Willis Otieno also condemned the incident, calling for transparency and accountability.
“The OCS of Nandi Hills Police Station must publicly release the names of the officers involved and confirm the steps taken to investigate and discipline them,” Otieno said.
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