Police officers during a security patrol in the past. Police in North Eastern has been accused of violating rights of people in the name of fighting terrorism. (Photo/Star.)Police officers have been accused of rights violations in the war on terrorism in North Eastern Kenya.
Head of Garissa human rights defenders Muktar Dahir said the violations include extrajudicial killings, enforced disappearance, unlawful detention and torture.
"Police officers have arrested, detained and tortured innocent locals on suspicion that they are the ones committing crimes. This should stop and police conduct thorough investigations before making any arrest in connection to terrorism," said Dahir.
He called on police officers to protect the people as provided by the law and not killing them.
"The law is very clear, police have a responsibility to protect the lives of people and their properties. But, now the security team is doing the opposite by arresting, torturing and killing residents leaving terrorists to walk free. Such officers should be arrested and jailed for violating rights of the people," he added.