In a swift crackdown on alleged police brutality, the National Police Service (NPS) has ordered immediate disciplinary action against six senior officers following a disturbing CCTV footage that went viral, showing armed police storming a pool hall and mercilessly assaulting young men who were simply enjoying a game of pool.
The incident, which occurred on January 10, 2026, in Nandi Hills town, Nandi County, captured at least 10 uniformed officers—armed with rifles, batons, and even pool sticks—raiding the entertainment spot around 11:51 p.m. The eight-minute video shows the officers ordering the unarmed youths to lie down, bite their national ID cards, and subjecting them to relentless beatings despite pleas for mercy. No apparent provocation or criminal activity was evident; the victims were reportedly just relaxing and playing pool—a common pastime with no legal restrictions.
The footage sparked nationwide outrage, with social media users, activists, and politicians condemning the act as blatant abuse of power. Prominent voices, including Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei, demanded full arrests and prosecutions, dismissing initial responses as mere public relations moves. The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) also launched its own probe, recording statements from injured victims.
In response, Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja directed the Internal Affairs Unit (IAU) to conduct a thorough investigation. On January 31, 2026, the NPS announced that IG Kanja had accepted the IAU’s recommendations and approved immediate administrative action against the following local commanders held accountable for oversight failures in their jurisdictions:
– Sub-County Police Commander (OCPD) for Tinderet
– Officer Commanding Station (OCS) for Songhor
– Officer Commanding Station (OCS) for Nandi Hills
– Officer in Charge, Rapid Deployment Unit (RDU) Songhor Camp
– Officer in Charge, General Service Unit (GSU) Songhor Camp
– Officer in Charge, Administration Police Service Tactical Unit (ASTU) Songhor Camp
NPS Spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga emphasized zero tolerance for misconduct, stating: “This action deliberately focuses on local commanders to ensure they are held fully accountable for all conduct within their jurisdictions. There will be no tolerance for such misconduct.”
The statement expressed deep regret over the incident, extended sympathies to the victims, and reaffirmed the NPS’s commitment to professionalism, public safety, and dealing firmly with illegal acts in accordance with the law.
The move comes amid growing scrutiny of police conduct in Kenya, with similar recent incidents reported elsewhere raising alarms about systemic issues. While administrative measures like suspensions or interdictions are expected, critics continue pushing for criminal charges against the direct perpetrators to ensure full justice.
As investigations continue, this case serves as a stark reminder of the need for accountability in law enforcement. The NPS vows that such brutality will not be tolerated— but many are watching closely to see if words translate into real change.
