The National Police Service (NPS) has dismissed as fake a viral social media post claiming to quote Inspector General Douglas Kanja.
In a clarification statement released on Wednesday, the police stated that the post making rounds on social media was not from the Inspector General or any other official communication channel from the National Police Service. The post claimed that the Inspector General had asked former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua to surrender a military helmet and bulletproof vest, among other allegations.
According to the police, the message is false and warned that spreading false information, especially on security issues, could cause confusion and panic among Kenyans.
This comes just a few days after a commotion was reported at St Peter’s ACK Church in Witima, Othaya, Nyeri County. The commotion occurred when a teargas canister was thrown into the church compound during a church service that was also attended by a number of political leaders across the country, including Gachagua. Some vehicles were also reported to have been vandalized within the church compound.
In a statement released earlier this week, the NPS confirmed the incident and stated that no injuries were reported. The Inspector General also directed the Internal Affairs Unit to investigate the incident. The Regional Police Commander for Central also directed the Nyeri Criminal Investigations Officer to secure the scene and take samples from the scene.
In the statement, the police condemned the act and stated that such acts have no place in the country. The police also stated that churches are places of worship and must remain peaceful and free from politics and violence. The police also stated that the law will be applied to all parties involved.
The NPS also noted the rise of fake notices and impersonators masquerading as police officials. In the last few months, the police have warned Kenyans over false recruitment adverts and social media accounts operated by individuals masquerading as senior police officials.
