Kiplagat’s family has revealed that their son, who was arrested in March 2024 on allegations of chicken theft, was later found innocent and released after investigations cleared him.
Despite his exoneration, the family alleges that Kiplagat was assaulted by a KDF officer and a GSU officer.
“On the night of December 22, government officers brutally attacked him. The next day, I found him in pain, and he told me he had been beaten by a GSU and KDF officer,” a family member recounted.
The assault has left Kiplagat permanently disabled, prompting his family to demand government intervention in seeking justice.
“My brother is now paralyzed and fully dependent on us. We appeal to the government to help us find justice,” his sister said.
Kiplagat’s case underscores a troubling trend of excessive force used by law enforcement, which has drawn increasing criticism in Kenya.
President William Ruto recently addressed concerns about police conduct during the launch of the National Police Service and Prisons Service strategic plans for 2023-2027 on December 13. He urged officers to exercise restraint and uphold the rule of law while fostering trust with citizens.
“Kenyans must witness a shift in policing—from practices marked by extrajudicial actions and impunity to approaches centered on due process and legal standards,” Ruto stated.
The President assured support for lawful police actions but called on citizens to maintain calm and cooperation when engaging with officers.
