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  • International Youth Day 2025: Dandora Youth Speak Out - Crime Si Poa Discussion with Deputy OCS

International Youth Day 2025: Dandora Youth Speak Out - Crime Si Poa Discussion with Deputy OCS

On International Youth Day 2025, young people from Dandora gathered to discuss the pressing challenges facing their community. The event provided a platform for honest dialogue between the youth and the police, with the Deputy Officer Commanding Station (Deputy OCS) reading out and responding directly to youth questions. Below is the important exchange.

What are the main challenges youth in Dandora are facing?

"Listen, all questions you have asked are very relevant. Police work to maintain law and order and no one is above the law. We understand your concerns about abuse and misconduct. If you are mistreated by police, you can escalate your complaint through the police command chain—from the station OCS, to sub-county commanders, all the way up to the county level."

What is the police doing about abuse among themselves?

"The police force has mechanisms to deal with internal misconduct. If an officer abuses their power, they face disciplinary action. We have officers responsible for internal investigations and accountability."

If you are harassed or mistreated by police, what do you do?

"If you are harassed or mistreated by police, you should report immediately to the OCS at your local station. If the OCS is unavailable or involved, escalate the matter to the sub-county commander or higher. There are structures to ensure accountability. It is important that community members document and report these incidents."

How do the police protect members of the community from abuse?

"We are here to protect every member of the community. The police are mandated to uphold the law impartially. Our officers are trained to serve and protect. If anyone experiences abuse, they should report it. No one is above the law."

What is being done to fight corruption within the police?

"Corruption is a serious issue we are tackling. There are strict disciplinary processes and officers found guilty face consequences. We encourage community cooperation to report corrupt acts. We all must uphold morals—police and citizens alike—to end corruption."

What can youth do to help reduce crime and corruption?

"Youth have a critical role in supporting law enforcement. Engage in community policing initiatives, report suspicious activity, and avoid involvement in crime. We want youth as partners in building safer neighborhoods."

How can complaints be escalated if local police do not respond?

"There is a clear police command chain: Station OCS, Sub-County Commander, County Commander, and even the Inspector General’s office. You can also use the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) to report police misconduct. Persistence in following up is key."

What support is available for victims of police brutality or crime?

"Victims have access to medical and legal support services. Police also work with local NGOs and community organizations to provide assistance. We urge victims to come forward so we can ensure justice and support."

Closing Remarks

The Deputy OCS expressed sincere gratitude to the youth for their active participation and honest questions. He emphasized the police commitment to integrity, transparency, and partnership with the community.

"We thank the youth for their questions and participation. The police are committed to serving with integrity and transparency. We call on the community to partner with us to fight crime and build trust. Together, we can create a safer Dandora."

This International Youth Day dialogue is a significant step towards rebuilding trust and fostering cooperation between Dandora’s youth and law enforcement — an essential partnership in the fight against crime.