IG Kanja Warns Bribe Payers Face Arrest as Police Recruitment Kicks Off

Inspector-General of Police Douglas Kanja has issued a stern warning to job seekers planning to offer bribes during the nationwide recruitment of 10,000 police officers, saying they risk prosecution and disqualification.

Speaking ahead of the exercise that begins tomorrow, Kanja said the recruitment drive represents a watershed moment in the National Police Service’s reform agenda and will be conducted purely on merit, breaking away from past practices tainted by corruption and nepotism.

“Do not fall prey to impostors or corrupt individuals promising help in exchange for bribes. Offering money to recruiting officers, middlemen or anyone claiming influence will not only disqualify you but could lead to legal consequences,” the IG said.

He equally warned officers participating in the exercise that any engagement in malpractices would attract dire consequences, including dismissal and criminal charges, adding that oversight teams would conduct impromptu visits to recruitment centres to ensure accountability.

Kanja described the recruitment as more than just a hiring process, calling it a cornerstone of broader reforms aimed at rebuilding public trust in the police service and ensuring it reflects constitutional values.

He said past recruitment exercises had been marred by allegations of bribery, nepotism and fraud, leaving qualified candidates disillusioned and weakening the service.

“This time, the exercise—from screening to physical fitness tests, interviews and final selection—will be guided solely by merit, qualifications and performance,” he assured.

The IG urged eligible youth across Kenya to participate with confidence, saying their talent and dedication were what mattered regardless of where they come from.

He cautioned prospective recruits against presenting fake documents such as forged certificates, medical records or identification, warning this would result in immediate rejection and possible prosecution.

Kanja outlined several reforms already underway in the service, including comprehensive audits of internal systems to identify and seal corruption loopholes.

The force is also embracing technology through the introduction of a digital Occurrence Book system to replace outdated manual logs with secure, real-time digital records.

Community policing has been strengthened to empower local partnerships in addressing crime through dialogue and collaboration rather than confrontation.

The service has also intensified training for officers, focusing on human rights, constitutional adherence and professional ethics.

The IG called on the public to report any irregularities during the recruitment through the toll-free hotline 0800 722 203 or via WhatsApp to 0709570000, promising that every report would be investigated promptly and with confidentiality.

“By ensuring meritocracy in recruitment and advancing systemic reforms, we will build a police service that truly serves and protects all Kenyans,” Kanja said.