Shock as Police Training Gets Major Overhaul Amid Brutality Outcry
The National Police Service (NPS) has rolled out major changes to the way police officers are trained, with the goal of updating the force and rebuilding public confidence. This development comes as more than 10,000 new recruits report to different police training colleges across the country for their compulsory nine-month training programme.
While addressing the media at Kiganjo National Police College in Nyeri on Tuesday, NPS spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga explained that the new training programme goes beyond the traditional focus on physical fitness and learning the penal code. He said the updated curriculum is designed to prepare officers for the changing nature of crime and modern policing demands.
One of the biggest changes is the introduction of forensic studies, modern technology, and cybercrime awareness at the early stages of training. In the past, officers only learned these specialised skills after being posted to departments such as the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI). According to Nyaga, crime has increasingly moved to digital platforms, and officers must now be equipped with the right skills from the beginning of their careers.
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Nyaga also noted that human rights education has been made a core part of the training. This follows widespread public criticism over police behaviour, especially during protests where officers have been accused of using excessive force. He said the leadership of the service, including the Inspector General, is directly involved in ensuring the new training promotes respect for human rights and improves the image of the police.
In addition to legal studies, recruits will now spend more time in classrooms learning about basic etiquette, communication skills, and public relations. This training falls under the community policing approach and is meant to help officers interact better with the public and handle situations professionally.
The revised training programme will be implemented in all three police colleges, including Kiganjo and Embakasi A and B in Nairobi. Nyaga also disclosed that some recruits were sent home after reporting to the colleges due to issues such as pregnancy and other complications, although he did not give exact numbers or explain how replacements would be handled.
These changes come at a time when the government is facing increased pressure to reform the police service, especially following public concern over security, accountability, and cases of police brutality witnessed during recent demonstrations in Kenya.
Shock as Police Training Gets Major Overhaul Amid Brutality Outcry
