The National Police Service has launched disciplinary action against a police officer captured in a viral video allegedly harassing a female traffic officer on duty in Nakuru County.
In a statement issued on Friday, the service condemned the officer’s conduct, describing it as unprofessional, unlawful and contrary to the values expected of members of the police service.
The incident occurred on Wednesday, May 6, while the female officer was enforcing traffic regulations in Nakuru.
The video, which circulated widely on social media, shows the officer being confronted and verbally abused by a man later identified as a fellow police officer stationed within the same county.
According to the police service, preliminary investigations confirmed the man seen in the clip is an officer attached to the service.
“The male motorist seen in the clip, subjecting the female traffic officer to verbal abuse, intimidation, and actions undermining her lawful authority, has been confirmed as a police officer based in the same county,” the statement said.
The service said the behaviour displayed in the video violated the principles of discipline, professionalism and mutual respect expected from officers.
“The National Police Service condemns this behaviour in the strongest possible terms. Such conduct is not only unlawful but also directly contradicts the core values of professionalism, discipline, respect and integrity for which the NPS stands,” the statement added.
NPS further stated that no officer should face harassment or intimidation while carrying out lawful duties, regardless of gender or rank.
The police service also praised the female traffic officer for remaining calm and professional during the confrontation despite the provocation.
“We further commend the female officer for her composure, bravery and commitment to duty despite the provocation. Her conduct exemplifies the professional standards expected of every police officer in Kenya,” the statement read.
The service said disciplinary and corrective measures against the officer had already begun.
At the same time, NPS reiterated its commitment to tackling misconduct within the service and urged officers to uphold professionalism in their dealings with colleagues and members of the public.
