KNCHR condemns police brutality against Multimedia University student, as IPOA begins probe

The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) has decried the brutality inflicted on a Multimedia University student by police officers responding to a learners strike at the institution on Tuesday.

The video of the incident, which has since gone viral, captures armed police officers physically assaulting Trevor Mureithi, before dragging him to another spot. Mureithi appears to be limping, suggesting that he was already injured.

He narrowly escapes a fatal injury when a police officer released a teargas canister near him. Mureithi managed to dodge the explosion by moving away from the canister, which released with a delay.

In a statement released on Wednesday, KNCHR Chairperson Roseline Odede condemned the incident, emphasizing that all Kenyans have the right to peaceful assembly and the right to have their dignity respected and protected.

"Trevor was limping and lifting his left leg in pain meaning he most likely needed medical attention and the police officers should have had the humanity to assess the same and as accordingly but instead went ahead to instill more injuries that has led to his hospitalization," said Ms. Odede.

"This impunity being displayed by the police must come to an end! We cannot stand by and watch the force turn this country into a banana republic yet resources are invested in their training with the lens of the rule of law. "

She further compared the case to a recent incident during the anti-government demonstrations where a teargas canister fatally injured a protester.

"It is abhorring to watch such scenes, having witnessed a similar attack at Parliament buildings where a protester was killed after a canister released by security agents exploded on his body," noted Ms. Odede.

"The Commission was consistent in reporting police brutality during the protests with the hope that the Service and its officers will regroup and re-strategize on public order management with a view of rightfully dealing with protesters."

Further, the KNCHR boss urged the Inspector General of Police to initiate immediate investigations into the circumstances surrounding the incident, insisting that the National Police Service (NPS) take administrative action against the officers involved and ensure they face the full extent of the law.

She also called for NPS to take full responsibility for Trevor's medical care as a means of reparations for him and his family.

Ms. Odede likewise emphasized the need for NPS to invest significantly in the mental wellness of its officers, ensuring they can perform their duties effectively and respectfully while adhering to the law.

"The Commission reminds all that the rule of law and respect to the judicial processes must be adhered to and when aggrieved, the right processes as prescribed by law must be followed," she said.  

"Police officers should be faithful to their mission of 'Utumishi kwa wote'. Security personnel will be held individually culpable for breach of the law."

The Independent Policing and Oversight Authority (IPOA) has since said it has launched investigations into the incident.

"Upon conclusion of the investigation, IPOA will recommend action, including but not limited to prosecution of officers if culpability is established," said IPOA CEO Elema Halake in a statement on Wednesday.

"IPOA reiterates that members of NPS should discharge their mandate professionally and responsibly in accordance with Article 244 of the constitution."