The Inspector General of the National Police Service Eng Japhet Koome has warned criminals of tough times ahead, shortly after being sworn into office at the Supreme Court.
Eng Koome, who did not mince his words warned criminals that crime will not be tolerated under his watch, adding that police will use the powers bestowed upon them by the constitution to deal with the prevailing security challenges.
In his remarks after taking the oath which was administered by the deputy chief registrar of the judiciary Paul Maina, the Inspector General thanked President William Ruto, for his appointment and finding him capable to serve the country as the 4th Inspector General.
The IGP acknowledged the enormous responsibilities that lay ahead and promised to deliver to the people of Kenya, whom he described as kind-hearted, warm and welcoming.
Protect lives
“As I take over the leadership of the National Police Service, I want to assure you madam chief justice that we shall protect the lives and property that Kenyans have so painstakingly acquired,” said Eng Koome.
“Any criminal trying to pickpocket or snatch jewellery along the streets shall have themselves to blame as they shall be dealt with firmly,” added the new police boss.
While acknowledging the good work done by 98 per cent of police officers whom he said performed their duties professionally, the new police boss cautioned the errant two per cent and called upon police oversight institutions to take up their rightful roles and assist the National Police Service in dealing with them.
As Eng Koome assured the public of their safety and security, he also noted that all police officers were well versed with the law on the justifiable instances when they are supposed to use a firearm and assured police officers of his support so long as they acted within the law.
“Our officers are very clear on when they are supposed to use a firearm under the police act, that is when a police officer or a member of the public is in danger, when protecting life and property, in self-defence when a person charged with a felony escapes from custody and when preventing a person who rescues a person charged with a felony, we are there to protect such an officer,” enumerated the police chief as he urged police officers to fully exercise their powers in dealing with criminals.
Criminal justice reforms
The new police boss also put livestock rustlers on notice and promised a change of strategy that would target the livestock lords who benefit from the illegal trade that has led to a loss of lives and wanton destruction of property.
While congratulating the new IGP on his appointment and swearing in, Chief Justice Martha Koome, said that Eng Koome’s appointment came at the right time in the justice sector, as the National Council on Administration of Justice was embracing cooperation and collaboration for efficiency in the justice sector.
The Chief Justice called on the Inspector general to lead the police in participating fully towards the reforms in the criminal justice sector for the benefit of Kenyans.
