Embakasi East Member of Parliament Babu Owino has condemned an incident of alleged police brutality against youths in Nandi County, calling for the immediate arrest and prosecution of the officers involved.
In a statement issued on Friday, Owino said he was disturbed by an incident that reportedly occurred at around 11:51pm on January 10, where police officers from a local station allegedly assaulted young men who were playing pool at an entertainment joint.
“I am deeply disturbed by the incident where police officers violently assaulted young men whose only ‘crime’ was playing pool. Let it be stated clearly: playing a game is not a crime,” Owino said.
According to a video circulating online, the youths—dressed in red hoodies and black clothing—were seen playing pool inside the establishment before appearing unsettled moments later and attempting to flee.
Shortly afterwards, police officers were seen entering the premises, ordering some of the young men to lie on the floor while others were instructed to raise their hands.
However, the exact circumstances surrounding the police action remain unclear, including what may have prompted the officers’ intervention.
The legislator noted that Kenyan youth are already grappling with numerous challenges, adding that recreational activities such as games play a crucial role in keeping young people engaged, away from crime, and can help nurture talent.
He warned against what he termed a dangerous trend of criminalising leisure activities, arguing that such pursuits can produce world champions and create life-changing opportunities.
Owino further pointed out that there is no law in Kenya requiring citizens to carry national identity cards at all times or prohibiting people from engaging in games at night. He added that even where an offence is suspected, police officers must adhere strictly to due process.
“The police cannot act as arresting officers, prosecutors and judges at the same time. Kenya is a constitutional democracy founded on the principle that every person is innocent until proven guilty,” he said.
The MP stressed that brutality and violence have no place in law enforcement and demanded accountability from the authorities.
“We demand the immediate arrest of the officers involved, and they should be charged with assault. Our youths deserve dignity, protection and opportunity, not violence,” Owino said.
