Public Outcry as Kenyans Accuse Police of Targeting People With Dreadlocks

Concerns are escalating online after Kenyans accused police officers of targeting individuals with dreadlocks, alleging harassment, extortion and arbitrary arrests linked to appearance.

The discussion gained momentum on X after user Miss Macharia raised an alarm over what she described as increasing pressure on people with dreadlocks, especially those moving around at night.

She warned that fear of police encounters is forcing some individuals to cut off their dreadlocks to avoid confrontation.

“There’s so many reports of people cutting their dreadlocks because Kenya Police have been using that as an excuse to extort them. Especially people who commute at night. The speed with which we are regressing as a country is very saddening,” she wrote.

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Dreadlocks Spark Arrest Claims

As the conversation expanded, more users shared accounts of alleged harassment linked to dreadlocks and late-night movements.

SK Kaiga described a disturbing incident in Ongata Rongai where he says plainclothes officers confronted, assaulted and arrested him during a night errand.

He alleged that officers singled him out and escalated the situation after he questioned their identity.

“(They) threw me in that f**k ass truck and beat me up took me to the station and locked me up alongside 100+ other youngins…,” he wrote.

He further claimed that officers booked detainees under questionable charges, including what he believes were fabricated allegations.

“They charged everyone with touting… but guess what they charged me with… F**king MURDER!,” he recounted.

Kaiga said he regained his freedom the following day after what he described as a difficult and distressing process.

“I was bailed out the following day in the evening… the OCS got bribed and had my name scrapped off…,” he added.

He further added that the experience left him physically and psychologically shaken.

“I was physically and psychologically abused and all for what? Nothing!,” he said.

Harassment Sparks Public Outcry

The allegations quickly triggered widespread reactions online as users expressed concern over what they described as profiling of people with dreadlocks.

Law Society of Kenya President Charles Kanjama also weighed in, criticizing the reports and linking them to broader concerns about everyday policing practices.

“Sad. The everyday violations of the rule of law…,” he said.

Other users questioned how such arrests and charges could occur under unclear circumstances, urging accountability within the National Police Service.

Also Read: KNCHR Explains Delay in Reaching Victims of Police Brutality as Compensation Plan Progresses

Dreadlocks and Identity Profiling Concerns

Human rights observers argue that the reports highlight a deeper issue of identity profiling, where people with dreadlocks allegedly face suspicion based on appearance rather than evidence.

Critics say such assumptions unfairly target young people and violate constitutional protections on personal expression and dignity.

Legal experts also stress that law enforcement must not use physical appearance as a basis for arrest or intimidation, as this undermines constitutional rights.

The debate over the treatment of suspects with dreadlocks has also reached the judiciary.

In March 2025, an Eldoret court warned police against forcibly shaving suspects in custody.

Principal Magistrate Caroline Watimah described the practice as degrading and harmful, noting that it can cause psychological distress.

She urged reforms in police handling of suspects and called on the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) to strengthen training on humane treatment in custody.

As discussions continue online, pressure is mounting on authorities to respond to the allegations and restore public trust in law enforcement.

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A police Vehicle. PHOTO/ NPS