MP Babu Owino Condemns Police Brutality Against Youth in Nandi Hills

Embakasi East Member of Parliament, Hon. Babu Owino, has strongly condemned a recent incident of police brutality against young men in Nandi Hills, Nandi County, describing it as “deeply disturbing and unacceptable.”

The incident, which occurred at 11:51 PM on 10th January, involved officers from Nandi Hills Police Station violently assaulting youths whose only activity was playing pool at a local recreational spot. According to Hon. Owino, the act represents a worrying violation of constitutional rights and human dignity.

“Let it be stated clearly: playing a game is not a crime,” Owino said in a statement. “Our youth are already facing numerous challenges. For many, engaging in games is not just leisure, but a way to stay productive, avoid crime, and develop talent. We must not criminalize these activities that can produce world champions and transform lives.”

The MP emphasized that no law in Kenya requires citizens to carry identification at all times, nor does any law prohibit playing games at night. He further criticized the conduct of the police, highlighting that officers cannot act as arresting officers, prosecutors, and judges simultaneously.

Kenya’s legal framework, Owino noted, is based on the principle of presumption of innocence, where every citizen is considered innocent until proven guilty. “Brutality and violence have no place in law enforcement,” he stressed.

In response to the incident, Owino demanded the immediate arrest of the officers involved, calling for them to be charged with assault. He also called on the National Police Service and the Inspector General to uphold the law and ensure protection for all citizens, particularly the youth.

“Our youths deserve dignity, protection, and opportunity — not violence,” Owino said, urging authorities to take swift and decisive action to prevent such incidents in the future.

The statement has reignited national conversations about police accountability, human rights, and the treatment of young people in Kenya, with civil society organizations and residents calling for independent investigations and stricter oversight of law enforcement conduct.

No official response has yet been issued by the Nandi Hills Police Station, but the public and human rights advocates are closely monitoring developments following the MP’s statement.