The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has initiated investigations into the conduct of police during the Thursday demonstrations by medical interns in collaboration of Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists Union (KMPDU) members.
On March 1, 2024, IPOA acknowledged that it had information of the police’s use of excessive force during the demonstration. It also made clear that it was aware that the KMPDU secretary general had been hurt.
This came after mounting pressure and condemnation from various quarters including the International Commission of Jurists (ICJ), which urged the Authority to take immediate action to investigate the incident.
“As a Commission of Jurists, we urge the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) to take immediate action to investigate these incidents of excessive use of force and hold those responsible accountable Law enforcement agencies must be trained in the principles of proportionality and respect for human rights to ensure the protection of citizens during assemblies,” ICJ demanded.
“IPOA is aware of the Injuring of the National Secretary General & Chief Executive Officer at KMPDU Davji Atellah and others,” IPOA statement read in part.
Additionally, IPOA stated that they acted as mandated by Section 6(c) of Cap 86 of the Laws of Kenya.
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“The Authority monitored the enforcement of public order management by members of the National Police Service and is currently conducting inquiries into the unfortunate injuring of demonstrators,” their statement mentioned.
Finally, IPOA continued to urge members of the National Police Service (NPS) to discharge their mandate professionally and responsibly.
IPOA investigates police shooting in Kitale
In another related case, IPOA has launched Investigations into the fatal shooting of a Prison Officer in Kitale.
In a statement, IPOA stated it learned of the fatal shooting of the officer outside the Kitale Law Courts in Trans Nzoia County on Tuesday, 28 February 2024.
Preliminary findings indicated that a police officer shot the victim before attempting to take his own life.
“Upon learning of the incident, IPOA on its own motion immediately deployed its Rapid Response Team from the Eldoret Regional Office to initiate investigations into the matter and establish the facts of the unfortunate incident,” the statement read.
Despite this, IPOA is also investigating another fatal shooting in Lucky Summer, Nairobi.
“Investigations into the killings and other policing-related concerns raised in Lugari Constituency have also commenced,” IPOA added.
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In a statement, IPOA indicated that on Wednesday 28 February 2024, it received Lugari Member of Parliament, Nabii Nabwera who lodged a complaint against Kasarani Police officers for the suspected killing of two brothers in Lucky Summer.
IPOA is mandated by Constitution of Kenya to Investigate deaths caused by police action and monitors policing operations.
After investigations, it recommends appropriate action including Internal disciplinary and prosecution where criminal culpability is established.
