The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has initiated a formal investigation following the death of Rex Masai during the anti-Finance Bill protests in Nairobi on Thursday, June 21, 2024.
In a statement on Friday, IPOA chairperson Anne Makori said the agency is investigating police conduct during the June 18 and June 20, 2024 demos.
IPOA boss Makori underscored that the agency is mandated to oversee all police operations affecting the public under Section 6(c) of its Act.
“The Authority commends the protesters for holding peaceful demonstrations while unarmed and equally commends the National Police Service’s visible restraint unlike in previous demonstrations. However, the Authority has documented the death of Mr. Rex Masai allegedly as a result of police shooting and several serious injuries suffered by other demonstrators including police officers,” the IPOA chairperson said.
IPOA launched an investigation into Rex Masai’s death today and also initiated contact with the family of the deceased and other protesters injured during the demos.
“The Authority has this morning launched investigations into the fatal shooting and our investigation team has since established contact with the family of Mr. Masai, all the serious injury incidents documented during the demonstrations,” IPOA said.
IPOA called on police to exercise restraint even as it pleaded with protesters to remain peaceful.
“The Authority calls for continued restraint by the Police and calls on members of the public to be peaceful and conduct themselves within confines of the law.”
In a gesture of empathy, IPOA extended condolences to Rex Masai’s family and expressed solidarity with all Kenyans impacted by the tragic incident.
The agency also pledged to conduct an impartial investigation into the circumstances surrounding the use of force by police officers during the demonstrations.
“The Authority condoles with the family of Mr. Masai, friends and all Kenyans affected by the unfortunate event. IPOA further wishes quick recovery to all persons who were injured. IPOA remains committed to independence, impartiality, fairness and unbiased in all its operations.”
Furthermore, IPOA highlighted the prescribed conditions governing police use of force, which include prioritizing non-violent methods, ensuring proportionality in the application of force, and providing immediate medical assistance in case of injuries.
IPOA noted that failure to adhere to the aforementioned guidelines constitutes a disciplinary offence under the National Police Service Act and Service Standing Orders.
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