May 7, 2025 | Nairobi, Kenya
A disturbing video depicting a police officer stepping on a civilian’s neck has resurfaced online, sparking outrage across Kenya and renewing calls for greater accountability within the National Police Service (NPS).
The footage, which has gone viral on social media platforms, shows a uniformed officer kicking a man lying on the ground and forcefully stepping on his neck. The officer is seen wielding a baton and a firearm, while a small group of bystanders watch from a distance, visibly alarmed.
Police Respond to Viral Video
In response to public outcry, the National Police Service issued a statement confirming that the video is from a 2018 incident in Nairobi. According to the NPS, the officer involved was identified at the time, and disciplinary action was taken.
“This video, while deeply troubling, is not recent,” the statement read. “The officer in question was subjected to internal disciplinary processes, and appropriate measures were taken to ensure accountability.”
Despite the clarification, the incident has reignited public debate about police brutality, with many Kenyans questioning whether disciplinary actions taken in private are enough to deter future misconduct.
Public Demands Transparency and Justice
Human rights advocates and ordinary citizens alike have expressed frustration over what they describe as a pattern of impunity among law enforcement. Hashtags such as #EndPoliceBrutality and #JusticeForVictims have trended on Kenyan Twitter, as users called for the reopening of investigations and a public release of the disciplinary outcomes.
“We cannot continue to excuse violent behavior under the pretext of past action,” said Mary Atieno, a Nairobi-based human rights lawyer. “The public deserves full transparency and assurance that such acts will not be tolerated under any circumstances.”
Ongoing Concerns About Police Conduct
This is not the first time Kenyan police have come under fire for excessive use of force. In recent months, reports of unlawful killings, harassment, and intimidation have surfaced in various parts of the country. A recent case in Narok County, where police officers allegedly killed five civilians during a land dispute protest, has further heightened concerns.
The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has called for a broader investigation into patterns of abuse and systemic issues within the police force.
“We must go beyond case-by-case responses and address the root causes of these recurring incidents,” said IPOA Chairperson Anne Makori. “That includes training, oversight, and a culture of respect for human rights.”
The Way Forward
While the NPS insists it is committed to upholding professionalism and respecting the rights of all Kenyans, critics argue that internal disciplinary systems lack credibility without public oversight.
Calls for reform include the creation of a civilian review board, mandatory body cameras for officers, and legislative action to enhance accountability mechanisms.
As Kenyans continue to demand justice and reform, the pressure is now on the government and security agencies to prove that accountability is more than just a promise—it is a practice.
