Interior and National Administration Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has issued a stark warning regarding a growing crisis of alcohol and drug abuse within the Kenyan Police Service, threatening discipline, security operations, and public trust. He addressed Members of Parliament during a Speaker’s Kamukunji meeting, highlighting the urgent need for intervention.

• Murkomen disclosed that intoxication among officers has compromised security operations in regions like Kuria in Migori County, with some Officers Commanding Stations (OCSs) reporting to duty while drunk.
• The Inspector-General of Police has been directed to enforce strict measures, with over 1,200 OCSs currently undergoing vetting; officers with addiction issues will receive one chance for rehabilitation.
• Beyond substance abuse, Murkomen also raised concerns about mental health challenges within the service leading to tragic outcomes and the need for regularized police recruitment to address staff shortages.