IG Kanja Takes Administrative Action Against Six Senior Officers Over Nandi Hills Pool Scandal
Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja has ordered immediate administrative action against six senior police commanders following a violent incident at an entertainment joint in Nandi Hills, an episode that has triggered nationwide outrage and renewed scrutiny of police conduct.
The directive follows the emergence of an eight-minute closed-circuit television (CCTV) video showing uniformed police officers assaulting several young men at a pool hall in Nandi Hills town on January 10, 2026. The footage, which circulated widely on social media platforms, depicts armed officers wielding batons and firearms as they storm the premises and force patrons to lie on the floor.
At least 12 young men are seen complying with orders before some are subjected to repeated blows with batons. Audio from the video captures officers demanding identification documents from the patrons, with the situation escalating when one individual appeared to attempt to leave the premises.
The incident sparked sharp public condemnation, prompting the Internal Affairs Unit (IAU) of the National Police Service (NPS) to launch investigations. Following the probe, the IAU submitted recommendations to the Inspector General, which Kanja has since approved and acted upon.
Among the officers facing administrative action is the Sub-County Police Commander for Tinderet, who has been held accountable for incidents occurring within his area of command. Also affected are the Officer Commanding Station (OCS) for Songoh Police Station and the OCS for Nandi Hills Police Station.
In addition, the Officer in Charge of the Rapid Deployment Unit (RDU) Songoh Camp, the General Service Unit (GSU) Songoh Camp, and the Anti-Stock Theft Unit (ASTU) Songoh Camp have been placed under administrative measures.
In a statement issued by the National Police Service, the IG underscored the principle of command responsibility, noting that accountability must extend beyond officers directly involved in misconduct.
“This action deliberately focuses on local commanders to ensure they are held fully accountable for all conduct within their jurisdictions,” the statement read.
While the NPS did not disclose the specific nature of the administrative action taken, such measures typically include interdiction or suspension, transfer or redeployment, formal reprimands, loss of rank, salary stoppage, or, in severe cases, dismissal from service.
The police service reiterated its expectations of professionalism among officers, stressing that abuse of power would not be tolerated.
“The Inspector General reiterates to every officer that they bear a solemn duty as custodians of public safety, security, and property,” the NPS said.
Political leaders were among those who strongly condemned the incident after the footage went viral. Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei and Embakasi East MP Babu Owino separately called for swift accountability, terming the actions captured in the video as unacceptable and contrary to the rule of law.
“The Service remains committed to dealing firmly with all illegal acts in accordance with the law,” the statement added.
The Nandi Hills incident has once again ignited debate on police brutality and the use of excessive force in Kenya, with civil society groups and members of the public demanding deeper reforms within the police service. Analysts say the case will test the resolve of the NPS leadership to enforce accountability, particularly at senior command levels.
NPS has maintained that professional responsibility is a non-negotiable obligation for all officers, emphasizing that restoring public trust remains a priority amid growing calls for transparency and reform.
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IG Kanja Takes Administrative Action Against Six Senior Officers Over Nandi Hills Pool Scandal
