In Summary:
1) IPOA investigates police brutality during anti-government protests, recording 41 deaths and 199 injuries.
2) Families of victims are assured thorough investigations and justice by IPOA Chairperson Anne Makori.
IPOA officials and families of victims addressing the press on Wednesday July 31, 2024. PHOTO/ @IPOA_KE/X
The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has recorded new statements from families of victims of police brutality during recent anti-government protests. IPOA is currently investigating at least 41 deaths and 199 injuries resulting from the demonstrations.
IPOA Chairperson Anne Makori assured the families that the investigations would be thorough and that the pursuit of justice is underway.
More than ten families visited the IPOA headquarters in Nairobi on Wednesday to record statements with officials, as the agency aims to identify, investigate, and take action against the officers responsible for the deaths of young Kenyans.
“Imenikera, imenikera sana mimi…kile tu nataka kujua ni polisi mwenye aliuwa mtoto wangu, alimwua kwa nini na ni kitu kigani alimpata nacho,” said Pheobe Akumu Maina, a victim’s mother.
Edith Wanjiku Kamau, the mother of the late Ibrahim, added, “I have no faith in the police at all…IPOA gives me hope that I will get justice.”
Although most families have already buried their loved ones, they say closure will only come when justice is served.
“Tunataka justice ata sio pesa, ili serikali isirudie kuua watoto wengine…Eric aliuawa baada ya kupigwa risasi nyuma akiwa outside Parliament,” said Caroline Mutisya
However, some families, such as that of Kennedy Onyango, who was shot in Rongai, have yet to bury the 12-year-old due to a family dispute.
“Kennedy Onyango has not been buried because of an ongoing case,” said the deceased’s aunt Jennifer Adhiambo.
After taking the families’ statements, IPOA assured them of a thorough investigation process and urged them to have confidence in the institution.
“Have confidence and have faith…ultimately justice will be served. Some cases will conclude quickly, while others may take more time due to their nature,” Makori noted.