This archive report was first published on 12 November 2019.
On Monday, a viral video captured police officers brutally beating a JKUAT student, sparking outrage and prompting Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang'i to take action.
According to a statement on Twitter, Matiang'i expressed concern over the conduct of the officers during the protests by the students.
"I have observed the events at JKUAT today with profound concern. The use of force by police is clearly outlined in the National Police Standing Orders," Matiang'i said.
He added that he had spoken to the Inspector General of Police and both agreed that firm and decisive action would be taken against any officer who used excessive force within the next 24 hours.
The National Police Service has directed the Internal Affairs Unit to investigate and make recommendations for action against the officers involved.
Responding to the incident, the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) condemned the brutal way police officers were captured beating up the students, saying it would do all it takes to ensure that all the police officers are held accountable for their actions.
"IPOA condemns in the strongest terms possible yesterday's incident in which members of the National Police Service were caught on camera assaulting the students," part of a statement signed by Ms Ann Makori, IPOA's boss, read.
The university's administration had ordered the institution's indefinite closure hours into the demos, which had turned ugly as the students battled with police officers.
