IG Koome on instances when use of deadly force by police is justified

Inspector General of Police Japhet Koome on Friday revealed instances in which police officers are legally allowed to use deadly force.

While stating his immediate plans to address rising cases of insecurity across the country, just moments after assuming oath of office, the IG noted that police officers can use deadly force in five distinct scenarios.

According to the IG, a police officer can use lethal force when he or she has probable cause to believe that a suspect poses a threat of serious physical harm to the officer or to civilians.

"Police are also allowed to use firearms when protecting property if there is any imminent danger or threat," said Koome.

Should the officer find himself in a situation where he feels that his life is in danger, the officer is legally and constitutionally allowed to use a firearm in self-defence, according to IG Koome.

The IG added that when a dangerous suspect of a crime involving the infliction of serious physical injury attempts to flee, deadly force may be justifiable to effect an arrest or prevent the suspect from absconding.

This also applies to scenarios in which anyone attempts to break a dangerous felon out of prison or police custody.

"If a cop has arrested somebody charged of having committed a felony, then you attempt to rescue that person the law says a police officer can use a firearm," said the IG.

As long as police officers use their firearms under these circumstances, Koome added, the NPS will fully defend their decision before the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA). 

"Any cop who uses his or her firearms under those circumstances we are there to protect that officer," he said.