IPOA Issues Way Forward on Police Brutality Cases After Completing Investigations
The Independent Police Oversight Authority (IPOA) has concluded its investigations into the alarming cases of police brutality that occurred during recent Gen Z protests, which have resulted in numerous reports of violence and fatalities.
On Thursday, IPOA Chief Elema Halake announced that the authority had forwarded the investigation files to the Office of the Director of Public Investigations. This office is now tasked with reviewing the evidence and deciding whether to prosecute the officers implicated in these disturbing incidents.
Halake confirmed that IPOA had documented a staggering fifty-six deaths linked to police actions during the protests. “We are committed to having the cases expedited. We are under a lot of pressure from the public and rightly so,” Halake stated.
He highlighted the challenges IPOA faced, including limited resources, which have hindered the speed and comprehensiveness of the investigations. “The scope of the investigations is challenging because the incidents happened across the whole country, and the resources are not adequate,” he added.
The IPOA chief also expressed frustration over the lack of cooperation from victims and their families, which has impeded the progress of the investigations. “We are not getting the full cooperation we need and many witnesses have not come forth to enable us to move with speed. Criminal investigations require forensic support and the evidential threshold is very high,” Halake explained.
In response to the recent threats against Nakuru journalist Cathrine Wanjeri, who was allegedly shot by a police officer, IPOA is conducting a risk analysis to ensure her safety.
Wanjeri has reported receiving threats from individuals she suspects might be linked to her shooting. “It is true that there might be someone targeting me. How can I get the courage to come out of my house as a woman when someone you don’t know calls you and even worse, they know your family?” Wanjeri told the media.
The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) has condemned the threats against Wanjeri, with LSK President Faith Odhiambo demanding a thorough investigation. “This should be investigated, the media should not be intimidated, especially a victim of police brutality,” Odhiambo asserted.
IPOA remains under significant pressure from the public to address the allegations of police misconduct and ensure justice for the victims of the recent protests.
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IPOA Issues Way Forward on Police Brutality Cases After Completing Investigations
