The National Police Service (NPS) has issued new updates to its ongoing police recruitment process, correcting earlier errors and adding new details affecting National Youth Service (NYS) candidates and some venues across Kenya.
Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja made the announcement in a public notice on Friday, November 7, following an earlier advertisement published on Tuesday, November 4.
In his revised notice, Kanja said the changes aim to ensure inclusivity, transparency, and fairness in the nationwide recruitment exercise expected to attract thousands of young Kenyans.
Police Recruitment Changes Affecting NYS Candidates
Inspector General Douglas Kanja clarified that the recruitment exercise will now include both current and former NYS candidates. This marks a significant shift from the earlier notice, which had only mentioned current NYS applicants.
Kanja urged all former NYS members who wish to join the police service to present themselves at their respective home sub-county recruitment centres or report to the NYS Headquarters in Ruaraka, Nairobi County.
“This recruitment exercise recognizes the commitment and service of former NYS candidates. They are encouraged to come forward and participate,” said Kanja.
He emphasized that all eligible Kenyans, including NYS candidates, have equal opportunity to serve their country through the National Police Service, provided they meet the outlined qualifications and adhere to the rules.
Revised Police Recruitment Venues
The police service also corrected several recruitment venues to eliminate confusion caused by the earlier publication.
In Kajiado West Sub-County, the recruitment will now take place at Ole Polos Centre instead of the previously listed venue. Similarly, in Elangata Wuas Sub-County, the exercise will be conducted at the Deputy County Commissioner’s office, while in Narok West Sub-County, it will take place at Ng’osuani Centre.
Kanja noted that all other information contained in the earlier advertisement remains unchanged, including the recruitment date. He assured the public that the adjustments were necessary to maintain order and accessibility during the mass recruitment process.
Requirements for Police Recruitment Applicants
The Inspector General reminded applicants that the recruitment process is free of charge, warning Kenyans not to fall for individuals demanding bribes or offering assistance in exchange for placement.
“All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply directly without paying anyone. Any person found engaging in bribery or corruption during this exercise will face arrest and prosecution,” he stated.
Applicants must be Kenyan citizens aged between 18 and 28 years. They should possess a valid national identity card and have attained a minimum Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) grade of D+.
Male applicants must have a minimum height of 5 feet 8 inches, while female applicants must be at least 5 feet 3 inches tall. Both genders must be physically and medically fit and have no criminal record.
Candidates must download and fill out the official application form available on the NPS website and present it at their designated recruitment centres alongside original and photocopies of their national ID and academic certificates.
Warning Against Fraud and Misrepresentation
Kanja strongly cautioned applicants against providing false information or forged documents during the recruitment. He stressed that anyone caught doing so would be committing a criminal offence and face prosecution.
“The National Police Service will not tolerate dishonesty at any stage of this process. Those found with fake documents or giving misleading information will be prosecuted without exception,” warned Kanja.
He assured Kenyans that the NPS remains committed to ensuring merit-based recruitment that upholds integrity and equal opportunity.
The upcoming police recruitment is part of the government’s effort to boost security and increase the number of officers across the country. Thousands of candidates are expected to turn up in various sub-counties for physical and medical screening in the coming days.
By addressing the changes early and urging transparency, the National Police Service aims to eliminate confusion, prevent corruption, and encourage qualified youths—especially from NYS—to participate.
