IPOA launches probe after police shoot dead two people during Embu protests

The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has launched investigations into a police shooting incident in Embu County that left two people dead during protests over the state of Ishiara Level 4 Hospital.

IPOA, in a statement on Wednesday, condemned the shootings, saying it has since dispatched a Rapid Response Team to the area to establish the circumstances surrounding the shooting.

“In line with the provisions of the IPOA Act, which mandates the Authority to investigate deaths and injuries occasioned by police action, a Rapid Response Team has this morning been dispatched to the area with instructions to gather all relevant information,” IPOA Vice Chairperson Ann Wanjiku Mwangi said in the statement.

“Where fault is established, the Authority shall make appropriate recommendations, including but not limited to prosecution.”

The Authority further condoled with the bereaved families and called for calm as investigations continue, while at the same time reiterating its commitment to conducting “independent, impartial, and fair” investigations.

“The Authority condoles with the families and friends of those who lost their lives and wishes those who were injured a full recovery. We appeal to area residents to remain calm and allow due process of the law to take its course," added the statement.

On Tuesday, police responded to a demonstration by area residents regarding the status and service delivery at Ishiara Level 4 Hospital in Mbeere North Sub-county.

Tension reportedly escalated when police officers attempted to disperse the crowd. Witnesses claim that officers fired live bullets, fatally injuring two demonstrators.

Several others are said to have sustained injuries in the chaos, with some rushed to nearby health facilities for treatment.

The protests, largely led by youth in Ishiara, were sparked by concerns over deteriorating services at the facility, including a lack of drugs, inadequate staffing and poor service delivery.

According to eyewitness accounts on Tuesday, demonstrators marched along major roads chanting slogans and carrying placards calling for reforms in the health sector before the situation escalated when police attempted to disperse the crowd.

The National Police Service had earlier confirmed the deaths, terming the incident a “regrettable loss of life.” It claimed the protest had been infiltrated by criminal elements armed with crude weapons.

However, residents have accused police of using excessive force, saying officers fired live bullets at unarmed protesters.