Manning issues suspension instructions for policemen

Acting Police Commissioner David Manning has issued instructions for the suspension of police personnel initially involved in the Erima raid in the National Capital District.

The September 28th raid sparked off a confrontation with settlers resulting in two deaths.

Manning said the suspension is normal procedure undertaken by the Constabulary in any administrative or criminal investigation.

The acting Commissioner said police work is often tough and challenging but a lot can be achieved if good community relations built on mutual understanding and trust is forged between the police and the community through constant dialogue and interaction.

“Heavy handed tactics by police towards the community must cease if the Constabulary is to eradicate the element of mistrust and resentment in the hearts and minds of the people,” stated Manning.

“We need to mend this gap through restoration of trust, confidence and understanding both ways in order for all of us to make our society more safer and conducive for residents to live in and for business activities to operate and thrive in peace and harmony.”

Manning said the Constabulary will place more emphasis on refresher training and courses for police personnel to ensure they operate within the confines of ethics and discipline when dealing with hostile situations.

“The Constabulary management will also concentrate on developing the capabilities of the Police Internal Affairs Directorate by resourcing it to ensure all complaints of police abuses are speedily and professionally investigated and appropriate actions taken to maintain public confidence and trust,” he stated.

Manning said detectives investigating the aftermath of the violence in Erima were instructed to cover all aspects of the allegations leading up to and after the incidents. He said the biggest concern is the conduct of police personnel who were initially at the scene when the shooting deaths occurred.

“This is a homicide investigation but we will have to also investigate the issue of illegal liquor sales. We will arrest and charge the suspects involved in the illegal sale of alcohol as well,” Manning said.

Detectives assigned to these cases will also interview the settlers to identify and arrest the suspects involved in the attack on police personnel, damages caused to police vehicles as well as those of the commuting public.

“The success of these investigations will depend on the community’s willingness to assist the police to unveil all the wrong doings perpetrated by everyone involved, including members of the public and the police,” Acting Commissioner Manning concluded.

Author: 
Press release