IG Kanja Warns Police Could Use Live Ammunition During Protests
The remarks are likely to cause an upheaval, especially within human rights lobby groups, following accusations that the service has been facing over the conduct of its officers during unrest...
✨ Key Highlights
Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja has issued a stark warning, stating that financial strain and equipment shortages within the National Police Service (NPS) could force officers to use live ammunition to control protests.
- The NPS is facing a major financial strain with no budgetary allocation for basic supplies like teargas.
- Inspector General Kanja made these remarks during an appearance before the Administration and Internal Security committee, chaired by Gabriel Tongoyo.
- Recent protests have depleted existing police equipment, and lack of vehicles has caused delays in police response.
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Opposition Announces Rallies Amid Police Warnings and Teargas Probes - February 2026
The United Opposition alliance, led by Kalonzo Musyoka and Rigathi Gachagua, announced it will hold multiple rallies in Nairobi and other counties starting Sunday, warning Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja against interference. The alliance has cancelled a planned march to the police headquarters and instead vowed to pursue private prosecutions against twelve police officers. This relates to the investigation of the January 25 Witima ACK Church attack. In response to protests, IG Kanja warned that financial strain within the National Police Service could force officers to use live ammunition. Meanwhile, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen stated that teargas used at opposition rallies may not be from police, prompting an investigation into how civilians came to possess teargas canisters.
