IPOA launches probe after six people killed during dramatic raid at police station in Migori

The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has kicked off investigations after six people were shot dead when a rowdy mob invaded the Isebania Police Station in Migori on Thursday evening.

According to a police report on the incident, the mob arrived at the police station in a pick-up truck and unleashed machetes and stones.

"They smashed the windows of the station armoury, OCS office and other offices with stones. They started destroying the gates of the cells demanding the release of all prisoners in custody," read the report in part.

Police officers were then forced to use live ammunition after the group overrun the report office and armoury and were headed for the cells to apparently free the locked-up inmates.

IPOA, in a statement to newsrooms on Saturday, said six people were shot dead during the dramatic raid and several others left severely injured, among them a police officer.

“The Independent Policing Oversight Authority on Thursday evening learnt of a shooting incident at Isebania Police Station in Kuria West Sub-County during which six people were reportedly fatally wounded and others injured during the evening of Thursday, May 25, 2023. Among the injured include police officers,” IPOA Chairperson Anne Makori said in the statement.

“The incident allegedly occurred as police officers from Isebania Police Station attempted to restore peace through a public order management operation.”

The authority said it has since began a probe into the shootings, further adding that it will recommend prosecution for any police officers found culpable of misusing their firearm.

“Our Regional office in Kisumu on its own motion yesterday morning dispatched a Rapid Response Team to launch investigations into the deaths and injuries,” added the statement.

“Upon conclusion of its investigations, the Authority shall take appropriate action including recommending to the Director of Public Prosecutions the prosecution of any person found culpable.”