Punishment you’ll get if you break curfew directive

The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) has condemned the brutality meted upon civilians by police on March 27 and expounded on the sections of law that govern the curfew.

Through its president Nelson Havi, LSK says the police were not justified in any way to substitute the curfew penalty with brutality as witnessed on March 27.

“The penalty for contravening a curfew is a fine of not more than Ksh 1,000 or imprisonment for not more than 3 months, or to both. The National Police Service have no right or justification whatsoever substituting the penalty with corporal punishment. Their action amounts to aggravated assault,” said Havi.

The State on March 25 announced a 7pm to 5am curfew to contain the spread of the coronavirus.

On the first day of the curfew, police assaulted civilians thought to be contravening the law.

In some areas like Mombasa, cases of police using excessive force were reported as early as 6.00pm. One hour before the curfew.

For civilians who were assaulted by the police, LSK has asked them to document the incidences.

“Members of the public are requested to document all incidences of aggravated assault by the police and forward the same to the Law Society of Kenya.

We will take action against the said officers and or their superiors in charge of the commands where the offenses are being committed” said Havi.