President Ruto Pledges to End Extra-Judicial Killings

President Ruto has underscored his administration’s commitment to end extra-judicial killings in the country.

The president directed the Independent Police Oversight Authority (IPOA) to furnish the Ministry of Interior and Coordination of Government with a roadmap on how to deal conclusively with the vice.

"You are uniquely qualified to help us define a mechanism to stop this practice," Ruto said during a meeting with IPOA officials at State House to discuss their mandate.

Last month, Ruto ordered the disbandment of the Special Service Unit (SSU) of the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) over its alleged involvement in extra-judicial killings.

“I have directed that immediate measures be undertaken to disband the Special Services Unit in the Directorate of Criminal Investigations and with urgency investigations must commence so that those found culpable are held accountable,” said Ruto.

 “I believe we can keep this country safe and secure without tormenting our people. We can efficiently and effectively suppress crime, monitor, disrupt and apprehend criminals without abducting, torturing, killing or causing citizens to disappear,” he added.

Nine police officers attached to the disbanded SSU have since been arrested in connection with the disappearance and possible murder of Kenyan taxi driver Nicodemus Mwania Mwange, and two Indian nationals Mohamed Zaid Sami, and Zulfiqar Ahmed Khan.

The nine officers are Peter Muthee Gachiku, Francis Muendo Ndonye, John Mwangi Kamau, Joseph Kamau Mbugua, John Mwendwa Mbaya, David Chepcheng Kipsoi, Stephen Luseno Matunda, Paul Njogu Muriithi, and Simon Gikonyo.

The Kenyan and two Indians were reportedly abducted near Ole Sereni Hotel on Mombasa Road on July 24th. Reports indicate the two Indian nationals were in the country to work in President Ruto’s IT team ahead of the August 9th general election.