National Police Service condemns threats by GSU recruits in viral video
The National Police Service (NPS) has condemned General Service Unit (GSU) officers captured in viral video making reckless and irresponsible remarks hours after their pass-out.
In a statement, the police service said that the behavior portrayed in the viral video is unacceptable and appropriate measures will be taken against the graduates.
It termed the incident regrettable and reckless stating that it does not reflect the values of the GSU, KPS and the NPS.
“Attention of the NPS is drawn to a video clip circulating on social media depicting newly graduated GSU officers recording themselves as they make some irresponsible and reckless remarks. We wish to clarify and assure the public that the behaviour portrayed in the clip is not acceptable and does not reflect the values of the GSU, KPS and the NPS,” read part of the statement.
“All graduands went through a rigorous value-based training modelled on democratic policing principles and designed to make them responsive and responsible officers of the law at the service of citizens.”
The NPS that is headed by Inspector General Hillary Mutyambai said that all officers are bound by the oath of allegiance which is a testament to the sanctity of their duty to service.
The service announced that an internal review is ongoing to prefer appropriate measures regarding the incident.
The 30-second-video which circulated online yesterday showed the psyched recruits donning the jungle military regalia with maroon berets.
The excited officers are seen boasting that they “are coming out” and that this was the “bad squad in red beret.”
President Uhuru Kenyatta presided over the 48th pass-out of GSU officers at the National Police College Embakasi B Campus in Nairobi County where 2,502 new officers were incorporated into the service.
While acknowledging the rampant cases of mental health issues within the force, Kenyatta urged them to uphold the law and abide by the rules and regulations of the service while safeguarding the rights and freedoms of Kenyans.
“To serve successfully you must uphold the law, abide by all applicable rules and regulations, follow the orders of your superior officers and above all, commit to serving this nation with courage, integrity, discipline and honour.
“As custodians of public safety and our internal security, you are the watchers on the wall who safeguard our rights, freedoms and our way of life. You must live true to the oath you have taken and at all times, whether on duty or otherwise, be model officers whom others will emulate,” Kenyatta said.
There is growing alarm in the country over a shocking rise in the number of suicides and murder cases by police officers.
As part of efforts to stop the trend, police authorities have launched counseling services.
The service has established a unit and staffed it to attend to their demanding situation.
The counseling unit will, among other things, evaluate, design and lead an outreach programme that helps prevent mental illness and substance abuse.
