The National Police Service (NPS) has urged Kenyans to maintain mutual respect and cooperation with law enforcement officers following a viral incident involving a Dutch national who assaulted two police officers in Diani, Kwale County.
In a statement issued on Wednesday afternoon, Police Spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga emphasized that citizens should engage law enforcement officers respectfully and use official complaint channels instead of resorting to violence or verbal abuse.
“The Service urges members of the public to cooperate with police officers and to channel any grievances or complaints through accountability mechanisms rather than resorting to abusive or violent behaviour,” Nyaga said.
The warning follows a disturbing video shared widely on social media on October 28, showing a Dutchman yelling at and spitting on two police officers at Diani Police Station after his arrest.
The officers maintained calm and restraint throughout the confrontation, drawing praise from many Kenyans.
According to the NPS, the foreigner allegedly hurled insults and used demeaning language towards the officers while they were executing their lawful duties.
Nyaga strongly condemned the attack, describing it as an affront to the rule of law and the dignity of the National Police Service.
“Any attack, whether verbal, physical, or otherwise, against a police officer constitutes an affront to the rule of law and undermines the integrity and dignity of the Service,” he stated.
The suspect, who was also accused of assaulting his girlfriend before being detained, was escorted to the airport on Wednesday, October 29, pending legal and deportation proceedings.
Nyaga further commended the two officers involved for exercising professionalism and restraint in the face of provocation, noting that their conduct reflects the positive results of ongoing police reforms aimed at promoting discipline and respect for human rights.
“The restraint demonstrated by the officers highlights the remarkable progress achieved through continuous police reforms,” he added.
The statement came after a public outcry on social media, where Kenyans urged Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja and Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen to take swift action against the foreigner for disrespecting law enforcement.