Two days ago, NTV highlighted the ill practices by Traffic police officers that collect bribes from matatu operators.

The officers photographed engaged in the act so swiftly as if they had mastered or choreographed their ill habits.

But today we have discovered that while the officers are to blame for taking bribes, matatu operators are also participating in the vice by appropriately placing bribes in door handles and driving licenses in order to prevent officers from being caught in the act.

Corrupt Kenyan policemen

The issue of corruption within the Kenyan police force is a longstanding and serious concern that has been highlighted in various reports, investigations, and media coverage.

Corrupt practices, including the taking of bribes, have been reported as common among certain officers, and this undermines trust in the law enforcement system.

Corruption in the Kenyan police often manifests in different forms, such as officers accepting bribes to overlook criminal activity, releasing suspects without proper procedures, or demanding money in exchange for favors or to avoid punishment.

This can perpetuate a cycle of impunity, making it difficult for citizens to seek justice and contributing to a lack of accountability within the police force.

Efforts have been made over the years to combat corruption, including internal reforms within the police service, public awareness campaigns, and the establishment of anti-corruption bodies such as the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC).

However, the challenge remains significant due to the deeply entrenched nature of these practices and the insufficient enforcement of anti-corruption laws.

The issue is compounded by factors such as low salaries, lack of resources, and inadequate training, which can leave officers more vulnerable to engaging in corrupt activities.

There is also the social and cultural dimension, where bribery is sometimes seen as a norm, and even a survival tactic for some officers in an environment where resources are scarce.

For meaningful change to occur, it requires not just reforms within the police force, but also a shift in the broader societal attitudes toward corruption, stronger enforcement of anti-corruption laws, and increased public participation in holding law enforcement accountable.

Additionally, supporting law enforcement officers with better pay, training, and resources could help reduce their vulnerability to corruption.

Corrupt Kenyan policemen perfect the art of taking bribes