Police officers in Nandi Hills beat several young men inside a pool hall late on January 10, 2026. CCTV footage from the hall shows the youths lying face down on the floor as ordered, with no sign of resistance.
Around eight to ten armed officers entered the room and struck the men with batons and a pool cue. The video, timestamped around late evening, has spread widely online and drawn strong criticism from local leaders.
The incident took place in Nandi Hills town, Nandi County. The young men, estimated at 12 to 20, were playing pool when the officers arrived. Footage shows them quickly complying by getting down on the ground. Officers then moved through the room, hitting them repeatedly.
One officer picked up a pool cue and used it on a man trying to leave. The beating lasted several minutes. The youths stayed on the floor until the police left. No arrests appear to have been made at the scene.
Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei spoke out strongly against the actions. He called it police brutality and a clear abuse of human rights. Cherargei said the youths’ only activity was playing pool, which is not against any law. He demanded the immediate suspension of the officers involved.
He also called on the Independent Policing Oversight Authority to start an investigation right away. The senator noted past complaints in the area, including alleged killings in Kimwani that IPOA has not fully addressed. He said he has raised the matter with the Senate’s national security committee.
Embakasi East MP Babu Owino also condemned the incident. He said playing pool is not a crime, and no law requires people to carry IDs at all times. Owino demanded the officers face arrest and charges for assault.
He argued that police cannot act as judge and jury. The MP said such actions harm youth morale and could discourage talents in sports like pool.
Lawyer Willis Otieno joined the calls for accountability. He said the footage shows clear harassment of citizens going about lawful activities. Otieno warned that silence would mean the police service accepts such behaviour.
As of January 16, no statement has come from the National Police Service or IPOA. The officers are believed to be from Nandi Hills Police Station. Locals say the OCS should name them and explain any steps taken.
No reason for the raid has been given publicly. Some reports suggest it might relate to checks for IDs or curfew rules, but nothing official confirms that.
This case fits a wider concern about police conduct in parts of Nandi County. Residents mention other unreported incidents of heavy-handed actions. Playing pool late at night is common in many towns as a leisure activity for young people. Halls like this one provide a place to gather and relax.
The video has gone viral on social media. Kenyans shared clips and expressed anger. Many asked why force was used when the youths followed orders. Comments called for justice and better training for officers.
Human rights groups often highlight the need for oversight in such cases. IPOA has powers to investigate and recommend charges. Past probes have led to suspensions or court cases, but follow-through varies.
For the affected youths, the experience leaves marks. Physical injuries from the beating need care. The fear of police in everyday spaces can linger. Community leaders say support is being offered to those involved.
This incident in Nandi Hills serves as a reminder of tensions between police and citizens in some areas. Calls for reform continue. Leaders push for quick action to rebuild trust.