This archive report was first published on 4 January 2020.
The Flying Squad, an elite police unit in Kenya, has a complex history marked by both successes and controversies. Established in 1989, the unit was initially tasked with tackling high-profile crimes and bringing notorious criminals to justice.
However, over the years, the Flying Squad has been embroiled in numerous allegations of human rights abuses, including extrajudicial killings, torture, and arbitrary arrests. These allegations have been leveled against the unit by various human rights groups and opposition politicians.
Despite these controversies, the Flying Squad has also been credited with some notable successes, including the capture of high-profile criminals and the disruption of organized crime syndicates.
On January 4, 2020, the unit's legacy was once again in the spotlight as the Kenyan government faced calls to reform the police service and address the ongoing human rights concerns.
