The government will take stern action against officers who allegedly lobbed tear gas canisters at a revellers club in Kisumu, a senior police officer has said.
Assistant Inspector General of Police Joseph Keitany said the matter is under investigations and any officers found guilty will face the law.
Speaking to the press on Friday, Keitany urged victims of the Wednesday incident to report immediately at Kisumu central police station.
“Police are the enforcers of the law and we cannot allow a few individuals to tarnish the image of the forces under my leadership,” he warned.
The incident at Barcadia Lounge Club saw property worth millions destroyed and several people injured. A reveller, Anne Njoki, said most people sustained bottle cuts injuries as they scampered for safety.
The incident started when three officers attached at the Police Dog Unit allegedly arrested and beat up two ladies outside the club.
Revellers who were seated outside shouted at the officers in protest prompting them to fire in the air before lobing tear gas canisters at the balcony and entrance.
The revellers lost mobile phones with the club incurring huge losses due to breakages and unsettled bills.
A journalist who sought anonymity was allegedly handcuffed and robbed of more than Sh4,000 by officers during the scuffle.
Kisumu Residents Voice Association Chairman Audi Ogada called for speedy investigation on the matter.
“We cannot allow assault against women and impunity by police officers. The perpetrators must be brought to book,” Ogada said.
He urged Keitany to rein on junior officers fond of harassing owners of social joints demanding ‘protection fee’.
Ogada said two notorious CID officers at Kisumu Central Police Station should be transferred immediately.