Kenya Police Stand Firm on Live Ammo Use Amid Protests
Kenya police firing teargas at protesters
Kenya Police Defend Use of Live Ammunition Amid Protests
Former National Police Service (NPS) Spokesperson Charles Owino, currently chairing the Kenya Institute of Mass Communication (KIMC) Council, has vigorously defended the use of live ammunition by police officers during protests. Speaking on Citizen TV’s Daybreak show, Owino asserted that such measures are justified when demonstrations escalate into violence and property destruction.
Police Authority to Maintain Order
Owino emphasized the rigorous training police officers undergo to handle protests effectively. He explained, “Our standard procedure begins with verbal warnings and the use of teargas. If protesters persist and pose a threat to public safety or critical infrastructure, we escalate to the use of batons and, when absolutely necessary, firearms.”
Defending the Use of Firearms
Responding to criticisms suggesting alternatives such as rubber bullets, Owino argued, “Rubber bullets are not always effective in dispersing violent crowds intent on causing damage. Police officers need appropriate tools to maintain order and protect innocent civilians.” He further defended the tactic of targeting individuals instigating violence, stating, “In chaotic situations, pinpointing and neutralizing ringleaders is crucial to restoring calm and preventing further escalation.”
Minimizing Casualties Amid Chaos
Owino stressed the primary goal during protests is to uphold the law and ensure public safety. “Our officers are trained to exercise restraint and use force only when absolutely necessary,” he affirmed. Regarding recent incidents where protesters breached Parliament, Owino justified the police response, saying, “When fundamental institutions are threatened, law enforcement must act decisively to maintain order and prevent chaos.”
Public Backlash and Human Rights Concerns
Criticism of the government’s handling of protests has intensified following reports from the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights. According to their latest findings, 39 people have been reported dead, 32 individuals have disappeared involuntarily, and 627 protesters have been detained since the onset of anti-government demonstrations.
In conclusion, Owino reiterated the necessity for police to have the authority and means to quell violence and protect public safety during protests. He emphasized the importance of adhering to legal standards while facing challenging and often volatile situations. As debates over police tactics continue, stakeholders advocate for balanced approaches that prioritize both law enforcement and human rights concerns.
