The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has summoned over 50 police officers linked to illegal actions during the Finance Bill 2024 demonstrations by Gen Z and the Azimio protests of 2023. The officers are accused of participating in operations that led to deaths, serious injuries, and other forms of misconduct.
Among those summoned are 15 senior police commanders, including Bungoma County Police Commander Francis Kooli. These officers are expected to appear before IPOA detectives starting Tuesday for interviews and to record statements. They include commanders from the Western region and officers from specialized units such as the Akichelesit Anti-Stock Theft Unit (ASTU).
“In the course of its investigations, the Authority has established that several police officers were involved during the said police operations that resulted in deaths and serious injuries,” IPOA communicated to the Kenya Police Service in an August 30 letter.
The Kenya Police Service has directed the summoned officers to meet with legal representatives in preparation for their appearance before IPOA. “Legal officers from this headquarters will meet with concerned officers at the Regional headquarters on September 16 for briefing prior to appearing at the Authority offices,” said Elizabeth Marube, on behalf of the Deputy Inspector General.
The investigation is centered around several incidents, including the fatal shootings of protesters Reagan Ouko and Caroline Shiramba on June 25, and Daniel Wanje and December Shivachi on July 23. Kakamega Commander Lucy Kananu has been directed to provide police operation orders for the dates of these protests, along with documentation of arms movements and ammunition distribution.
Officers are required to present additional records, including OB entries, police signals, and details of vehicles and motorcycles used during the operations. Failure to identify the officers responsible for the shootings could lead to senior commanders being held accountable for the actions of their subordinates.
