Shootings, attempted rape: IPOA probes police conduct during elections

The Independent Policing and Oversight Authority (IPOA) has now launched a probe into the conduct of officers who were dispatched to various areas to facilitate smooth operations during the General Elections.

According to IPOA, in a statement to newsrooms signed by Chairperson Anne Makori on Saturday, 250 police officers were deployed during the poll period.

Despite noting that the general conduct of most of the officers has been exemplary, the authority however cited three instances it says it has since began looking into.

These include the alleged shooting of two men and a woman by police in Eldas, Wajir County; the victims suffered non-fatal injuries.

IPOA also flagged an incident where an officer attached to the Matisi Police Station in Bungoma County attempted to rape a citizen on August 10, 2022.

The Makori-led State agency further said it is investigating a third incident where a police officer in Uasin Gishu County allegedly shot and injured a political aspirant’s bodyguard on August 8, 2022.

“Though largely the police have so far conducted themselves within the law, the Authority has noted isolated incidents requiring its investigative attention,” stated Ms. Makori.

“IPOA is also observing how the police continue to manage crowds, maintain security and order during this electioneering period. IPOA remains committed to being independent, impartial and fair.”