Brutal Policing Report Launched: Alarming Rise in Extrajudicial Killings Sparks Nationwide Concern

Brutal Policing Report Launched: Alarming Rise in Extrajudicial Killings Sparks Nationwide Concern

Story by Stella Ranji 

NAIROBI, May 10, 2025 — A scathing new report titled The Brutal Policing Report has unveiled shocking statistics and trends of extrajudicial killings and police misconduct across Kenya, igniting urgent calls for justice, reform, and accountability. Launched during a high-profile event attended by key stakeholders in Kenya’s justice and human rights sector, the report paints a grim picture of unchecked brutality within law enforcement agencies.
The annual report, jointly released by the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), was presented by IPOA Chair Ahmed Issack and Director of Public Prosecutions Renson Ingonga. It documents a surge in cases of unlawful police killings, enforced disappearances, and systemic impunity, with data collected in collaboration with over 20 human rights and legal organizations.
The National Police Service (NPS) and the National Police Service Commission (NPSC) were placed under the spotlight, as the report accused them of lax enforcement of disciplinary measures and failure to cooperate with oversight agencies. The report reveals that in the past year alone, more than 230 people were victims of police-related killings, with only a handful of officers facing prosecution.

Representatives from leading human rights bodies — including Human Rights Watch, Amnesty International Kenya, the Kenya Human Rights Commission, Kituo Cha Sheria, and HAKI Africa — condemned the findings and demanded immediate government intervention. Jedidah Waruhiu of the Witness Protection Agency called for enhanced protection mechanisms for whistleblowers and witnesses, noting that fear of retaliation has silenced many voices.
President of the Law Society of Kenya, Faith Odhiambo, emphasized the legal profession’s responsibility in pushing for justice. “The rule of law is being undermined by a culture of impunity. We cannot allow the badge to become a license to kill,” she stated.
Former Chief Justice David Maraga, also present at the event, called for urgent reforms in the police and justice systems, warning that the nation risks sliding into lawlessness if the trend is not reversed.

Religious leaders and the chairperson for NCCK Dr.Elias Agola,and civil society had this to say.... the Defenders Coalition, and the Social Justice Centres Working Group, echoed these concerns. They urged President William Ruto's administration to act decisively and transparently.
The report also recommends the establishment of a special tribunal on police crimes, improved funding for oversight bodies, and comprehensive mental health evaluations for officers. International partners such as Heinrich Böll Stiftung and Protection International pledged continued support for Kenya’s justice and human rights initiatives.

As the nation grapples with the disturbing revelations, all eyes now turn to the government’s response — and whether justice will finally prevail for the victims of state violence.


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