Nairobi Police Stations Set for CCTV Rollout

Kenya is embarking on an ambitious overhaul of its police force, even as a cloud of controversy hangs over the role of Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Lagat in the ongoing investigation into the death of Albert Ojwang while in police custody. 

Transport Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has addressed the mounting public concern on Monday, June 16, stating that the Independent Police Oversight Authority (IPOA) is currently conducting inquiries, and as of yet, has not produced any findings that would necessitate Lagat's resignation. The death of Ojwang, who was arrested at Central Police Station after allegedly defaming Lagat on social media, has ignited public outrage and intensified scrutiny of police conduct. 

The circumstances surrounding his detention remain unclear, fueling widespread suspicion and calls for Lagat to step down during the probe. Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja previously dismissed demands for Lagat's resignation during a parliamentary session. Murkomen defends Lagat's professional background, emphasizing his extensive experience in investigative procedures. However, the CS has declined to directly comment on whether Lagat should recuse himself from his duties during the investigation, deferring to IPOA's judgment. 

"If his position hinders the investigation, the IPOA will determine that. As things stand, he is still assisting with the inquiry as the complainant in the case," Murkomen said. 

He stresses that further action would only be taken if concrete evidence warrants it.

Beyond the immediate controversy surrounding Ojwang's death, Murkomen unveiled sweeping plans for police reform aimed at enhancing accountability and transparency within the National Police Service. A key component of these reforms is the mandated installation of CCTV cameras in all 1,209 police stations nationwide within the next two years. Murkomen emphasises that each station's surveillance systems would be securely backed up to preserve footage for future investigations. 

He further said, "Officers in charge will be held directly accountable if there is any tampering with surveillance records."

In addition, Murkomen has issued directives requiring the immediate reporting of any incidents of assault or misconduct occurring inside police stations. Under the new guidelines, all cases must be logged within one hour to ensure prompt action. This measure is aimed at improving oversight, particularly in detention facilities, where allegations of abuse are frequently reported.

In an effort to modernise record-keeping, Murkomen has announced the complete digitisation of Occurrence Books (OBs) within one year. The transition to digital OBs will enable real-time monitoring of police reports, allowing authorities to track, audit, and verify incident logs remotely. Officials anticipate that this shift will reduce document tampering and improve efficiency in processing complaints.

Murkomen also signals a shift toward community-oriented policing, encouraging officers to actively engage with civil and religious groups to foster trust and improve service delivery. Regular evaluations will be conducted to assess compliance with established protocols. Recognising the need for structural change within the force, Murkomen has directed the immediate implementation of continuous professional development training. 

The initiative will commence with Officer Commanding Stations (OCSs), who will undergo constitutional and conduct-based training designed to reinforce ethics and rights-based policing. Despite these ambitious plans, Murkomen acknowledges existing financial constraints, noting that budget cuts have significantly impacted training programs. However, he expresses confidence that Parliament and the Treasury would collaborate with his ministry to secure adequate funding for future development efforts.