Dial to expose dirty cops: Police introduce toll-free hotline for corruption reporting
The National Police Service (NPS) has unveiled new toll-free hotlines and digital reporting tools in a renewed effort to combat corruption overboard and even within its ranks, aiming to restore public trust in a force long plagued by bribery and misconduct.
In a press statement issued on May 23, 2025, the Office of the Inspector General said that corruption remains a criminal offence under both the Constitution and police disciplinary regulations.
The Service emphasised that it has adopted a multipronged approach to improve efficiency in preventing and combating corruption, including new technology-driven mechanisms that allow 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 said.
It added that;
“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 tools introduced are three toll-free hotlines, 112, 999, and 911, that members of the public can use to report cases of bribery or unethical conduct by officers.
In addition, an Anonymous Reporting System (ARIS) under the Internal Affairs Unit and the #FichuaKwaDCI tip line (0800 722 203) are now available to enhance 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,” NPS stated.
The initiative comes as the police service faces persistent criticism over its accountability, particularly in interactions involving traffic stops, licensing, and criminal investigations.
By automating services such as fine processing and cash bail, the police hope to eliminate opportunities for bribery, according to the statement.
The announcement also highlighted a partnership with the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) to carry out a comprehensive systems review aimed at identifying weak points that enable 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,” NPS said.
In a clear move toward enforcing accountability, the Inspector General warned that all commanders will be personally liable for any actions under their watch 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 statement by NPS stated.
While public trust in law enforcement remains low, observers say the move to digitise services and introduce confidential reporting systems marks a meaningful—if overdue—step toward institutional reform.
Still, questions remain over the long-term enforcement of these mechanisms and whether reported cases will lead to action.
In its renewed push for integrity, police have vowed to step up anti-corruption efforts and build 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,” NPS said.
As the country continues to grapple with corruption in public institutions, the success of these reforms will likely depend on whether citizens believe their voices will lead to real consequences and whether the police are willing to police themselves.
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Martin Oduor
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