IG Kanja: New recruits equipped to deal with all security threats

Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja announced that the new recruits scheduled for the passing-out parade on Friday have received comprehensive training to handle various security threats. Speaking after inspecting a parade at the National Police College in Kiganjo, Nyeri County, Kanja detailed the types of threats they were prepared to face, including banditry, technology-driven crimes, organized criminal gangs, and gender-based violence.

The recruits, numbering 5,000, have undergone a transformative training curriculum under new guidelines. Kanja highlighted the recruits' completion of rigorous exercises, their acquisition of policing knowledge and skills, and the development of resilience. He emphasized the reforms within the National Police Service, which are guided by the rule of law, professionalism, accountability, respect for human rights, and the fundamental freedoms of Kenyans.

Kanja challenged the new recruits to uphold positive values and cautioned against misconduct and malpractice, urging them to maintain discipline and professionalism at all times. He warned against indiscipline, depression, drug abuse, crime, and any other misconduct, stating that the police service would not tolerate such behavior.

Kanja highlighted the core policing values instilled in the recruits, such as professionalism, integrity, accountability, teamwork, patriotism, and empathy. He stressed that these attributes should guide every decision made during their policing careers. The recruits must demonstrate their competence and professionalism in their new roles, as Kenyans have high expectations of the National Police Service.

Kanja reminded the recruits that the true measure of their competence would be assessed during their service, noting that policing is a sacred calling and duty, with authority derived from the Constitution and the people of Kenya. Deputy Inspector General Eliud Lagat also addressed the new recruits, cautioning them against negative social media use that could interfere with police operations.

He emphasized responsible social media use, including confidentiality, professionalism, respect for the law, and adherence to Service Standing Orders. Lagat urged the recruits to leverage technology responsibly while avoiding the temptation to address official and administrative matters on social media.