By Reporter
Security officers from the Lamu East constituency villages of Ndau, Mkokoni, and Kiunga have been criticized for aggressive behavior and excessive use of force during arrests, raising concerns about their understanding of human rights.
Area residents have accused the officers of harassment and claim they are unfairly targeted as terror suspects following local attacks, deepening the rift between residents and law enforcement.
This has led to continued tensions between the community and security forces that have failed to aid in fully improving security in the area, with local leaders and residents pointing to the lack of training on human rights and Kenya’s legal frameworks as a key issue.
In response to these growing concerns, the Muslim Women Advancement of Rights and Protection (MWARP), supported by the Tushirikiane project funded by Deris Wanaag, has launched a human rights-focused training program for security and area leaders.
Speaking to the media following the launch of a series of human rights training Muslim Women Advancement of Rights and Protection Lamu coordinator Umulkher Ahmed stated that the training is aimed at improving cross border security, community policing as well as strengthening security agents and area resident’s relations within Lamu East.
She further stated that the training seeks to shift the way officers engage with the community, moving from aggressive enforcement tactics to a more respectful and professional approach.
“By equipping officers with the knowledge and skills necessary to handle arrests and community interactions in a lawful and rights-respecting manner, which will further dissuade the public from generally having a wholesale mistrust towards security agencies,” she said.
She further stated that the initiative aimed to reduce the complaints of harassment and rebuild trust between the community and law enforcement.
“Addressing the tension between security forces and the local population is crucial for ensuring long-term security,” Shee Kupi Ali, Lamu County Disaster Management Director stated, adding that the training which is being held in Kiunga will aid in educating officers on human rights and fostering a sense of mutual respect, we can create a safer environment for everyone.
The initiative according to MWARP officials also focuses on marginalized groups, particularly women and youth, who are often the target for random arrests and detainment and are also likely to be affected by heavy-handed policing tactics.
