NAIROBI, Kenya- Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja has warned politicians against using police officers assigned to them for personal or political errands, saying the National Police Service will withdraw security personnel from leaders found misusing the officers.
Speaking during a security briefing, Kanja said police officers attached to State officers and other protected persons are deployed strictly to provide security and not to serve as personal aides, political mobilisers or domestic workers.
He warned that any leader found abusing the privilege risks losing their security detail.
“We will not hesitate to withdraw security officers from any politician or public official who misuses them. Officers assigned for protection must only perform duties related to security,” Kanja said.
The police chief reiterated that security officers remain accountable to the National Police Service and must perform their duties professionally and within the law.
He also directed commanders across the country to monitor how officers attached to VIPs are being deployed and report cases where they are assigned responsibilities outside their official mandate.
Kanja’s warning comes amid increased scrutiny over the deployment of police officers to politicians and public officials, with several security-related disputes emerging in recent months.
Earlier this year, Siaya Governor James Orengo protested the withdrawal of his security detail, terming the move abrupt and unprocedural while demanding an explanation and immediate reinstatement of the officers.
The Inspector General has recently maintained a hard line on professionalism within the service, warning against political violence, misuse of police resources and any conduct that undermines public confidence in the National Police Service.
He has repeatedly stressed that officers must uphold the Constitution, remain impartial and execute their duties without political influence.