The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has summoned over 50 police officers in relation to deaths, injuries, and the use of excessive force during recent Gen Z protests in Kenya.
This action follows concerns raised by the Law Society of Kenya (LSK) and civil society organizations about police involvement in the deaths and abductions of citizens during various anti-government protests across the country.
According to IPOA documents, more than 15 senior police officers are among those required to appear before IPOA detectives between September 16 and September 19, 2024, for questioning and the recording of statements.
In response, the Kenya Police Service headquarters instructed the affected officers to consult with their lawyers on Monday ahead of their appearance before the IPOA.
“Legal officers from this headquarters will meet with the concerned officers at the Regional headquarters on September 16 for a briefing before appearing at the Authority offices on the specified dates,” read a letter signed by Elizabeth Marube on behalf of the Deputy Inspector General.
On August 30, IPOA notified the Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of the Kenya Police Service that it is nearing the completion of independent investigations into the killings and injuries that took place during the 2023 Gen Z and Azimio protests.
“During our investigations, the Authority established that several police officers were involved in operations that resulted in deaths, serious injuries, and other crimes,” IPOA stated.
Under Section 7(1) of the IPOA Act, the Authority has the power to obtain documents and summon any serving or retired police officer for questioning.
For example, IPOA has already questioned senior officers from Nakuru and their subordinates following the shooting and injury of K24 TV journalist Catherine Wanjeri, among other incidents.
Additionally, IPOA has requested certified copies of police operation orders for June 25, July 2, and July 23, along with all relevant OB entries, Arms Movement Registers, and the number of ammunition allocated to each officer.
