KNCHR raises alarm over enforced disappearances, police brutality following June 25 protests
Police brutality
By WMW
The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) has raised serious concerns over alleged enforced disappearances, torture, arbitrary arrests, and excessive use of force by security agencies in the aftermath of nationwide protests held on June 25, 2026.
In a statement issued yesterday, the Commission said it had documented multiple human rights violations linked to security operations conducted during and after the demonstrations, which marked the second anniversary of the 2024 Gen Z protests.
KNCHR said it continues to receive, verify, and document emerging reports of abuses, calling for urgent investigations and accountability.
The Commission reported seven cases of enforced disappearances, saying several individuals arrested during the protests were allegedly taken away by police and later found in traumatized conditions or remain unaccounted for. Among those cited were protesters allegedly bundled into police vehicles outside Parliament before being driven to unknown locations. Some were later reportedly dumped along Nairobi roads after what they described as torture and inhumane treatment.
KNCHR also raised concern over the continued disappearance of three individuals, urging security agencies to immediately disclose their whereabouts. It further noted other cases where individuals were allegedly picked up by security officers and remain missing.
According to the Commission, at least 361 people were arrested across several counties including Nairobi, Kiambu, Kajiado, Nakuru, Nyeri, Machakos, Meru, Bungoma, Laikipia and Nyamira. It warned that the scale of arrests raises questions about compliance with constitutional safeguards against arbitrary detention.
The rights body expressed particular concern over the arrest of 18 Human Rights Defenders and two freelance journalists, saying their detention undermines constitutional protections for civic space, media freedom, and freedom of expression. KNCHR called for the immediate and unconditional release of those detained solely for exercising their rights or performing professional duties.
The Commission also documented incidents of alleged police brutality, including the shooting of a protester in Naivasha and the assault of a person with disability in Nakuru. It said such cases raise serious concerns about the necessity and proportionality of force used by law enforcement officers and require urgent, independent investigations.
KNCHR further criticised restrictions on freedom of movement during the protests, noting that widespread police roadblocks in Nairobi and other counties prevented many citizens from accessing workplaces, disrupting livelihoods and essential services. It said these actions amounted to an infringement of constitutionally protected rights.
The Commission also highlighted concerns over the conduct of some security officers during the demonstrations, citing reports of hooded and plain-clothed officers operating in unmarked vehicles despite a court order requiring police to remain identifiable. It said such practices undermine accountability and public trust in law enforcement.
KNCHR warned that Kenya continues to face recurring allegations of human rights violations during public protests, noting that taxpayers are often burdened with compensation costs for victims of police misconduct. It urged security agencies to adhere strictly to the Constitution, court orders, and international human rights standards.
Among its key recommendations, the Commission called on security agencies to urgently account for missing persons, ensure medical care for the injured, and conduct prompt investigations into all reported violations. It also urged the Director of Public Prosecutions to review protest-related charges to ensure no individual is unlawfully prosecuted or detained.
KNCHR further directed the Inspector-General of Police to enforce compliance with court orders requiring officers to be identifiable and to withdraw plain-clothed officers from protest operations. It also called for accountability for any officers found culpable of violations.
Despite the concerns raised, the Commission commended security officers who exercised restraint during the demonstrations, particularly in Mombasa, where it reported no incidents of excessive force. It also praised protesters who demonstrated peacefully, saying their conduct reflected respect for democratic principles and constitutional freedoms.
KNCHR reaffirmed its constitutional mandate to protect and promote human rights, urging members of the public to report any violations related to the protests through its official communication channels.
The Commission concluded by reiterating its commitment to safeguarding human dignity and ensuring accountability, stating that respect for human rights remains central to Kenya’s democracy and rule of law.
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