A recent report by the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has unveiled rampant corruption within Kenya’s National Police Service (NPS), revealing that citizens pay bribes of up to Ksh20,000 for various police services.
Shocking Bribery Rates in Police Services
The EACC report, released on Monday, February 10, indicates that in 2023, Kenyans paid an average bribe of Ksh20,300 to obtain police abstracts. Similarly, individuals seeking police protection were required to pay a bribe of Ksh6,887.
The report also disclosed that those applying for certificates of good conduct paid an average bribe of Ksh541. Notably, bribes demanded by traffic police officers increased by 89% between 2022 and 2023, signaling a worsening trend in law enforcement corruption.
Causes of Rampant Corruption in the National Police Service
The EACC attributed the prevalence of corruption to weak systems within the National Police Service. The commission noted that loopholes in governance, lack of compliance with Chapter Six of the Constitution, and violations of the Leadership and Integrity Act, 2012, have fueled unethical practices.
Additionally, the report highlighted unethical deductions from police allowances, forcing officers to solicit bribes to compensate for lost earnings.
“NPS has not developed the requisite documents in line with Chapter Six. There is also non-compliance with provisions of Chapter Six and the Leadership and Integrity Act, 2012,” the report stated.
Addressing the Corruption Crisis
The findings emphasize the urgent need for reforms within Kenya’s police service. Strengthening accountability measures, improving transparency, and ensuring adherence to ethical standards are critical in curbing the bribery menace.
The EACC continues to advocate for stringent anti-corruption measures, urging government agencies to take swift action against individuals found engaging in corrupt practices. As the fight against corruption intensifies, Kenyans hope for a more transparent and accountable law enforcement system that serves the public without exploitation.
