MOBILE PHONE TECHNOLOGY ADOPTION BY THE POLICE AS A COUNTER TERRORISM MEASURE IN NAIROBI CITY COUNTY, KENYA
Abstract
The study investigated the utilization of mobile phone technology by the National Police Service (NPS) in Nairobi City County (NCC) to combat the increasing threat of terrorism. With a notable gap in existing research on this topic, the purpose was to explore how mobile phone technology was employed within the NPS's counter-terrorism efforts. The objectives included assessing the extent of mobile technology adoption, identifying influencing factors, and understanding the challenges encountered by the NPS in utilizing this technology. Through a focused examination of the Anti-Terrorism Police Unit (ATPU) and specific mobile technologies utilized, the study sought to answer research questions pertaining to the extent, reasons, and limitations of the NPS's use of mobile phones for counter-terrorism. The study reviewed literature objectively with the aid of theories that included: Actor-Network Theory (ANT), the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), and Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT). This study used a descriptive survey research design with qualitative and quantitative approaches to investigate the adoption of mobile phone technology by police officers in counterterrorism in NCC, Kenya. The target population of the study was police officers of all cadres from police constable to Gazetted officers based at ATPU. A stratified random sampling method was used to select a sample of 207 respondents. Data was collected using questionnaires and interviews. Quantitative data was analysed using descriptive statistics, while qualitative data was analysed thematically. The findings of the study revealed that police officers in NCC are aware of the benefits of using mobile phone technology in counterterrorism. However, there are a number of challenges that hinder the adoption of this technology, such as lack of training, lack of funding, and security concerns. The study recommends that the government should provide more training and funding to police officers so that they can effectively use mobile phone technology in counterterrorism. In conclusion, although moderate adoption exists, the full potential remains untapped. Factors influencing adoption were identified, including infrastructure, funding, training, collaboration, and policy support. Challenges like limited resources, technological barriers, and privacy concerns hinder optimal utilization. Recommendations focus on investment in infrastructure, securing adequate funding, and providing comprehensive training, fostering interagency collaboration, and addressing privacy concerns. These findings hold significant implications for stakeholders: Policymakers and law enforcement agencies can enhance counterterrorism efficiency and coordination by investing in technology and fostering collaboration. By addressing the recommendations, the safety and security of NCC and similar regions can be improved.
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