Murkomen Dismisses Existence of ‘Police Killer Squad’
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has denied claims that the Kenyan government operates a covert “police killer squad,” stating unequivocally that no such entity exists within the country’s security forces. His remarks follow widespread public outrage over the alleged use of excessive force by police during recent protests, which resulted in multiple deaths and serious injuries.
Speaking at a media briefing, Murkomen emphasized that police operations in Kenya are strictly governed by the law, particularly the National Police Service Act of 2011. This law outlines when and how police officers can use force, including lethal force, which is only permitted under extreme and lawful conditions such as protecting life or preventing grievous harm. “There is no killer squad in Kenya,” Murkomen insisted, adding that any claims to the contrary are unfounded and misleading.
The CS’s remarks came in response to mounting concerns and accusations of extrajudicial killings during the Gen Z-led protests that erupted in June and continued into July 2025. The demonstrations, sparked by frustrations over economic inequality, youth unemployment, and perceived government excesses, were met with heavy-handed police responses in several counties. Footage and eyewitness accounts from various locations documented scenes of chaos, with some protesters reportedly shot at close range.
Murkomen’s earlier comments suggesting that police should “shoot to kill” anyone who attacks security infrastructure drew severe backlash. Although he later clarified that he was merely referencing existing provisions within Kenyan law, many interpreted his remarks as a green light for extrajudicial violence.
Civil rights organizations, including the Law Society of Kenya (LSK), the Katiba Institute, and the Kenya Human Rights Commission, quickly condemned the statement and called for accountability. Some even filed court petitions demanding an investigation into the legality of Murkomen’s pronouncements.
Prominent voices such as former Nairobi Town Clerk Philip Kisia and activist Irungu Nyakera also demanded Murkomen’s arrest, arguing that his statement amounted to incitement and abuse of office. In response, the Interior CS reiterated that he does not have the legal authority to command the police directly—stressing that only the Inspector General of Police has operational control over law enforcement.
The controversy has also drawn international attention, with human rights observers warning of a deteriorating security environment and eroding civil liberties in Kenya. President William Ruto has weighed in, urging the police to exercise restraint during protests. However, he maintained that individuals who attack officers or public installations would be treated as terrorists.
