Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja has said new police recruits set to pass out on Friday have received comprehensive training to deal with a wide range of security threats facing the country.
Kanja spoke after inspecting a passing-out parade at the National Police College Main Campus in Kiganjo, Nyeri County, where he said the recruits had undergone training under a new curriculum designed to equip them with modern policing skills.
The recruits have been trained to respond to threats including banditry, technology-driven crimes, organized criminal gangs and gender-based violence; among other security challenges.
The IG said the recruits had demonstrated discipline, resilience and an understanding of the knowledge and skills required of members of the National Police Service.
“You have been taken through a very comprehensive and transformative training curriculum. I am also well aware that you have endured rigorous exercises, maintained discipline, acquired policing knowledge and skills, and developed the resilience expected of members of the National Police Service,” the IG said.
Kanja said the recruits represent ongoing reforms within the National Police Service, which are anchored on the rule of law, professionalism, accountability and respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms.
He challenged the recruits to uphold positive values and culture within the Service while warning them against misconduct, indiscipline and malpractice.
The IG urged the officers to discharge their duties diligently and professionally, reminding them that their conduct would have a direct bearing on their careers and public confidence in the police.
“The highly sought job opportunity is now in your hands. You must not lose it through indiscipline, depression, drug abuse, engagement in crime, or any other misconduct,” he said.
Kanja further warned that the National Police Service would not tolerate indiscipline or criminal conduct among its officers.
“As a Service, we shall never condone indiscipline or criminal acts by any member. Adherence to the code of conduct and the law will be vital for your career,” the IG cautioned.
According to Kanja, the recruits have also been equipped with core policing values including professionalism, integrity, accountability, teamwork, patriotism and empathy.
“These attributes should guide every decision you make throughout your policing career,” he affirmed.
True Test Will Come at Work Stations
The IG told the recruits that their real test would begin once they are deployed to their respective work stations, where they will be expected to demonstrate the skills and professionalism acquired during training.
He said Kenyans have high expectations of the National Police Service and urged the new officers to serve the public with competence and integrity.
“As you prepare for your graduation, you must remember that the real measure of your policing competence shall be assessed out there in your work stations,” he said.
Kanja described policing as more than a career, urging the recruits to regard it as a responsibility entrusted to them by the Constitution and the people of Kenya.
“In discharge of your mandate, always note that policing is not merely a career, but a sacred calling. It is a sacred duty,” he said.
He added that the authority exercised by police officers is derived from the Constitution and the people of Kenya.
DIG Lagat Warns Recruits Over Social Media Use
Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat, meanwhile, cautioned the recruits against irresponsible use of social media, warning that inappropriate online activity could compromise police operations.
Lagat urged the officers to use social media responsibly and observe confidentiality, professionalism, the law and the Service Standing Orders.
He also warned the recruits against using social media to address official or administrative matters, noting that police officers are required to follow established procedures and regulations governing official communication.
“To the recruits, I reiterate the need for the responsible use of social media. In as much as we want to leverage on technology, I want to caution you to desist from using social media in a way that may jeopardize police operations,” DIG Lagat said.
The recruits are expected to pass out on Friday after completing their training, marking the beginning of their deployment within the National Police Service.
