Deputy Inspector General of Kenya Police Eliud Lagat conducted surprise inspections at various police stations and roadblocks, observing the challenges faced by officers. Lagat, who had traveled to Eldoret for the town’s city status conferment, opted for a road trip, which included stops at Nakuru Central, Cheptulu, Mbale, and Kondele police stations, as well as Vihiga County Headquarters and the Nyanza Regional Headquarters.
“I stressed the importance of serving the public responsibly, professionally, and in accordance with the law, while remaining accountable for every action,” Lagat stated in a phone interview. During the visit, he made an unannounced stop at Kapkangani under the Kapsabet Patrol Base, where he briefly spoke with traffic officers on duty.
Lagat urged the officers to avoid corruption, be accountable, and treat the public with dignity. Witnesses reported that some officers at the roadblock were skeptical of Lagat’s identity until they saw other senior officers arrive and recognized him.
Lagat emphasized the crucial role officers play in maintaining law and order but challenged them to be more responsive and responsible. He praised their dedication and encouraged them to adopt modern policing methods to address security issues.
On mental wellness, Lagat acknowledged that officers often face mental health challenges and encouraged them to seek help through the National Police Service (NPS) Mental Wellness departments or from close associates. He pledged to make more visits across the country to ensure effective service delivery.
This initiative has sparked discussion within the police service, with some officers in poorly managed stations requesting similar visits to their areas.
Lagat said he does not understand why station commanders leave their stations dirty and poorly managed.
“Some of the issues I have witnessed do not need money to address. You do not need money to be clean in and around the station.”
“Let officers always attend to the needs of the public without delay. Why would an OCS say he is sleeping and so the public should wait for him? We have deputies and others who can handle such issues,” he said.
Lagat also took issue with corruption claims and warned his officers not to condone it.
“Don’t try it under our watch now.”
