NPS Breaks Silence on Standard Group Editor’s Abduction as IG Kanja Orders Probe

The National Police Service (NPS) has dismissed a headline published by The Standard as misleading, inflammatory and unsupported by evidence, accusing the media house of sensationalising isolated incidents and undermining public confidence in the police.

In a statement dated September 2 2026, NPS says Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja has ordered immediate investigations into the alleged kidnapping of Standard Group Associate Editor Alex Kiprotich in Gilgil.

“The National Police Service (NPS) has noted with grave concern the headline in today’s edition of The Standard. We state categorically that the headline is misleading, inflammatory, and unsupported by evidence,” read the statement.

NPS urged media houses to verify facts before publication, saying responsible journalism was important for maintaining public trust and national stability.

Police Brutality

Further, NPS reiterated that it operates as a constitutional body committed to the rule of law, fundamental human rights and the legal framework established under the Constitution of Kenya and the National Police Service Act.

Additionally, NPS said allegations of police brutality are routinely referred to the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) for independent investigations and maintained that it does not shield officers from accountability.

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It added that it works closely with oversight institutions, including IPOA, the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) and the Judiciary.

Citing IPOA’s 2024/2025 Annual Report, the NPS noted that 262 cases involving police officers are currently pending before the courts, while 42 officers have been convicted since the authority was established.

Investigations Into Abduction

It said every allegation of misconduct is treated seriously, investigated thoroughly,

and acted upon in accordance with the law.

Separately, the Service confirmed it had launched investigations into the alleged kidnapping of Standard Group Associate Editor Alex Kiprotich in Gilgil.

The Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja directed immediate inquiries to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident, including the identity of heavily armed individuals who were reportedly seen ordering occupants out of a vehicle.

In addition, NPS said its Anti-Abduction Unit, which was established to handle cases of abductions and disappearances, is leading the investigations with the aim of bringing those responsible to justice.

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On the same note, NPS also condemned kidnapping, abduction and intimidation targeting journalists or any other individuals, stating that such actions threaten constitutional rights and public security.

It further pledged that investigations into the Gilgil incident would be conducted transparently, while reaffirming its commitment to protecting all persons and upholding the rule of law.

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Inspector General Douglas Kanja
PHOTO/PD