Coast Regional Police Commander Ali Nuno’s undercover visit to Kisauni police station has exposed the stark contrast in service delivery within the police force. On the night of February 3, Nuno, accompanied by senior officers, including the Regional head of the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) and Administration Police, embarked on a night tour of Kisauni and Nyali sub-counties to assess police responsiveness in crime-prone areas.
Disguising himself as a victim of robbery with violence, Nuno attempted to file a report at Kisauni police station. However, what unfolded was a shocking display of negligence. Instead of receiving assistance, he was ignored, given the runaround, and ultimately dismissed. The reporting officer, engrossed in watching news on his phone, showed little interest in Nuno’s plight. When he finally acknowledged the complainant, he blamed the victim for carrying valuable items such as laptops and cash, suggesting the robbery was his own fault.
The officers at the station, including the Officer Commanding Station (OCS) and the crime desk in-charge, failed to intervene. After persistent insistence, the sluggishly recorded report ended with Nuno being advised to return the following day. Only after he revealed his true identity did the officers at Kisauni change their attitude, but it was too late. Nuno reprimanded them and left.
In stark contrast, his visit to Nyali police station presented a different experience. There, he was received professionally by officers on duty. The report office personnel treated him courteously and empathetically, promptly booking his complaint at 10:16 PM. The professionalism at Nyali police station left Nuno impressed, highlighting the inconsistencies in service delivery within different police stations.
Nuno’s mission was not merely an experiment but an eye-opener into the varying degrees of police professionalism. He has since deployed more undercover officers to assess different stations, ensuring feedback informs reforms. His experience mirrors that of many Kenyans who face inefficiency and indifference in police stations.
Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja has acknowledged these challenges, stating that several initiatives are underway to transform police attitudes and improve service delivery. With crime rates escalating in Kisauni, Nuno’s bold approach underscores the urgent need for police reforms to restore public trust in law enforcement. His findings are expected to inform crucial policy decisions aimed at enhancing police responsiveness and accountability.
