The Independent Policing Oversight Authority has recorded 121 complaints against police officers in Marsabit County, raising concern over alleged misconduct and abuse of power. The cases include failure to present suspects in court within 24 hours, extortion, corruption, illegal withholding of cash bail, and assault.
Speaking during the opening of a new IPOA office in Saku, the authority’s chief executive officer Elema Halakhe said the complaints had been reported by both police officers and members of the public. He warned that if the issues are not addressed early, they could damage the reputation of the police service.
IPOA commissioner Nyaga Muchiri said the rising number of complaints made it necessary to establish an office within the county. Previously, residents had to travel to Meru County to lodge complaints, making access to justice difficult for many.
The new office is expected to bring services closer to residents and make it easier to report cases of police misconduct. IPOA has urged the public to use the office to ensure accountability and timely follow-up of cases.
Among the key concerns is the alleged refusal by some officers to return cash bail or demands for a portion of it, an issue IPOA says requires urgent investigation.
Human rights defender Mohamed Hassan welcomed the move but criticised what he described as selective police operations that sometimes target innocent residents. He called for quick action to resolve all reported cases, noting that some violations are serious.
Residents have also called on IPOA to organise open forums to allow people to share long-standing grievances and seek justice.