By James Mutua
The National Police Service (NPS) has raised alarm over a growing wave of coordinated attacks targeting police stations, officers and critical infrastructure across the country, warning that the incidents pose a serious threat to national security.
In a press briefing at the National Police Service Headquarters on Friday evening, Inspector-General Douglas Kanja condemned the escalating lawlessness, describing the attacks as a direct assault on public safety and community stability.
“These acts are not merely unlawful. They represent a grave and deliberate attack on the security of our nation and the safety of our citizens,” he said, adding that urgent and decisive measures are being implemented to contain the situation.
The police chief noted that stations serve as critical centres for emergency response and public protection, warning that any attack on such facilities undermines the country’s overall security framework. He emphasised that assaults on officers or installations, regardless of motive, will attract the full force of the law.
The statement comes amid what the NPS described as an alarming surge in politically instigated violence, with leaders across the political divide accused of mobilising criminal gangs to fuel unrest. The service warned those involved to immediately cease such actions or face legal consequences.
“To crush these threats, we have activated comprehensive and lawful strategies in collaboration with partner security agencies and the public,” Kanja said. “We will ensure perpetrators and their enablers are brought to justice, regardless of their status.”
Despite the emerging security concerns, the NPS highlighted progress in crime reduction, reporting a five percent drop in the national crime rate in 2025 compared to the previous year. The service attributed this to intelligence-led operations and multi-agency approaches targeting terrorism, organised crime, cybercrime, banditry and drug trafficking.
The police also pointed to Kenya’s growing role in international security, citing its leadership in the UN-backed Multinational Security Support mission in Haiti, as well as ongoing peacekeeping deployments in South Sudan and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Kanja reiterated that all police operations must remain within the confines of the law, stressing adherence to the Constitution, human rights standards and due process. He warned that any officer found engaging in misconduct would face immediate disciplinary action.
At the same time, the NPS called on members of the public to cooperate with law enforcement by avoiding unlawful assemblies, refraining from acts of violence such as arson and vandalism, and reporting suspicious activities.
“We urge all Kenyans to remain vigilant but calm, and to continue with their daily activities without fear. Kenya remains safe and secure,” he said.
The Inspector-General reaffirmed the service’s commitment to professionalism, accountability and restraint, while maintaining that all lawful measures will be deployed to safeguard lives, property and national stability.
