NAIROBI, Kenya — The National Police Service (NPS) has introduced new toll-free hotlines and digital reporting mechanisms in a renewed effort to tackle corruption both externally and within its own ranks.
This initiative aims to rebuild public trust in a force that has long struggled with issues of bribery and misconduct.
In a press statement released on Friday, May 23, 2025, the Office of the Inspector General emphasized that corruption remains a criminal offense under the Constitution and police disciplinary regulations. The NPS highlighted its adoption of a multi-faceted approach to enhance efficiency in preventing and combating corruption, which includes new technology-driven tools enabling the public to report wrongdoing confidentially.
“The National Police Service (NPS), established under Article 243 of the Constitution of Kenya (2010), is mandated by Article 244(b) to prevent corruption and promote and practice transparency and accountability. Under the Eighth Schedule of the NPS Act, corruption is a criminal offence, while Chapter 30 of the Service Standing Orders on Discipline classifies it as a disciplinary violation,” the statement read.
It further stated, “The Service has adopted a multipronged approach to improve efficiency in preventing and combating corruption, including swift, firm, and fair handling of misconduct complaints, particularly those implicating Police officers in corrupt practices.”
Among the newly implemented tools are three toll-free hotlines – 112, 999, and 911 – which the public can utilize to report instances of bribery or unethical behavior by officers. Additionally, an Anonymous Reporting System (ARIS) within the Internal Affairs Unit and the #FichuaKwaDCI tip line (0800 722 203) have been introduced to bolster oversight and citizen participation.
“To strengthen anti-corruption efforts, the NPS has established Internal Accountability Mechanisms, including Quality Assurance Directorates within the Services, and the Internal Affairs Unit (IAU). Furthermore, to enhance oversight and reporting, the Service has leveraged technology by introducing Toll-free hotlines (112, 999, 911) for corruption reporting, the IAU’s Anonymous Reporting System (ARIS), and #FichuaKwaDCI (0800 722 203) for confidential tips,” the NPS announced.
This initiative comes as the police service faces ongoing criticism regarding its accountability, particularly in interactions involving traffic stops, licensing procedures, and criminal investigations. The statement indicated that by automating services such as fine processing and cash bail, the police hope to minimize opportunities for bribery.
The announcement also detailed a partnership with the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) to conduct a comprehensive systems review aimed at identifying and addressing vulnerabilities that facilitate corruption within the force.
“Additionally, the NPS has begun digitising its services, aiming to automate processes such as fine processing, cash bail, and other public-facing services to eliminate opportunities for bribery. Aligned with our vision of becoming a professional, efficient, and responsive Police Service, we have partnered with the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) to conduct a comprehensive systems review, identifying and eliminating vulnerabilities that enable corruption,” the NPS stated.
In a clear move towards enforcing accountability, the Inspector General issued a warning that all commanders will be held personally responsible for any actions under their command that undermine professionalism or public trust.
“To reinforce this commitment, the Inspector General of the National Police Service has further reminded all commanders that they shall be held personally accountable at their mandated levels and bear direct responsibility for any conduct that compromises professionalism and erodes public trust,” the NPS statement emphasized.
While public trust in law enforcement remains low, observers suggest that the move to digitize services and introduce confidential reporting systems represents a significant—though perhaps overdue—step towards institutional reform. Nevertheless, questions persist regarding the long-term enforcement of these mechanisms and whether reported cases will result in tangible action.
In its renewed commitment to integrity, the police service has vowed to intensify anti-corruption efforts and foster greater public confidence through accountable and high-quality service.
“National Police Service reiterates its steadfast commitment to intensifying anti-corruption measures, striving for the highest standards of service, public trust, and accountability through professionalism and community engagement,” the NPS affirmed.
As Kenya continues to grapple with corruption in public institutions, the success of these reforms will likely hinge on whether citizens believe their reports will lead to real consequences and whether the police are willing to effectively police themselves.
