Former National Police Service (NPS) spokesperson Charles Owino says the police were justified to use deadly force on protesters.
Speaking on Citizen TV, he said that when rallies turn into property destruction, particularly crucial infrastructure, security forces are authorized to shoot protestors.
The former police spokeswoman emphasized that officers are well-trained in dealing with demonstrators, with protocols altering based on the circumstances.
"Traditionally, we were taught to begin with a declaration, instructing those present to depart immediately. If they resist, tear gas will be deployed. "If they continue to resist, teargas and batons are used to disperse them," he said.
"But now when property is being destroyed. What do you do? Those are the times you use your firearms." he added
When asked to use rubber bullets, the ex-police spokesperson said, "Will rubber bullets stop them? We need to face reality. We must give police power to bite. When we were being taught that if necessary, target the ringleader. If the situation is so bad, you are told, 'That tall person in the red cap,' aim and fire."
He emphasized, however, that police always work to limit injuries to a minimum.
"Those are the procedures, and they happen. So what we are saying is you limit casualties as much as possible. But this is impossible if we don't want to face the law," he added.
Referring to the recent entry into Parliament by anti-Finance Bill activists, Owino stated that police had no choice but to use force to stop protesters.
"When individuals breach Parliament, especially targeting an armory, what else can be expected? We must adhere to the law and act within our limits to maintain order. Failure to do so will lead to anarchy," Owino concluded.
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