IPOA begins probe on fatal shooting during boda boda protests in Vihiga

The alleged shooting by police occurred on May 4 during a protest by bodaboda operators over the impounding of 20 motorcycles by law enforcement officers amid a probe into spiking motorcycle theft and other motorcycle-related criminal activity.

Reports indicate that a local DJ and a primary school staff member were shot dead. 

IPOA noted that protesters took to the streets moments after the confiscation of the motorcycles, barricading the Kisumu–Busia highway while others allegedly attempted to forcibly retrieve the motorcycles from Luanda Police Station.

"The situation escalated into public disorder, during which incidents of looting from nearby premises were also reported, prompting the deployment of reinforcement officers from Sabatia, Vihiga, and Emuhaya Sub-Counties to restore order," IPOA said in a statement.

The unrest, according to the Authority, led to the death of one person, the arrest of five suspected protesters, and seven injured police officers. 

IPOA believes that the probe will determine whether the use of force was justified and whether established public order management protocols were adhered to.

The National Police Service has also been urged to uphold and respect the constitutional rights of citizens to peaceful protest while responding to public unrest.