Influence of Social Demographic Factors on Victimization of Police Officers in Embakasi Sub-County, Nairobi City County, Kenya

Abstract

_{Victimization of police officers is on the increase globally and locally. Reports of police officers being killed by civilians in the course of executing their duties have continued to raise a lot of concerns. This study analyzed the influence social demographic factors on victimization of police officers in Embakasi sub-county, Nairobi city county, Kenya. The specific objectives were to examine the extent and nature of police victimization and the influence of social demographic factors on victimization. The study was anchored on the lifestyle theory of victimization and the conflict theory. An exploratory research design was adopted, targeting a population of 449 police officers from general duty, traffic, administration police, and criminal investigation units within Embakasi sub-county. A sample of 135 police officers was selected using stratified and simple random sampling techniques. Primary data was collected through structured questionnaires and focused interviews with key informants. Data analysis was conducted using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). The research question addressing the extent and nature of police victimization was analyzed using descriptive statistics, while binary logistic regression analysis was applied to examine the influence of social demographic factors on victimization.  Thematic analysis was used to interpret data gathered from focused interviews with selected key informants. The study revealed that 81% of respondents experienced criminal victimization. A majority, 58%, faced threats, 38% physical victimization, and 4% robbery. Police victimization was significantly influenced by age, education, experience, location, marital status, and department. The study concludes that criminal victimization among police officers is prevalent. The National Police Service should enhance safety training with a focus on threat assessment, de-escalation and situational awareness. Officers should be equipped with advanced protective gear and supported by effective surveillance and emergency response systems. The National Police Service should make accessible psychological support and wellness programs to help officers cope with trauma and stress. Additionally, the service should strengthen community policing initiatives to enhance trust, reduce hostility and improve officer safety.}