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IPOA Investigates Police Conduct During Elections

SK 2 years ago 1 min read

The Independent Policing and Oversight Authority (IPOA) has now started an investigation into the behavior of the officers who were sent to various locations to ensure the General Elections went smoothly.

According to IPOA, 250 police officers were on duty during the election period, according to a statement to newsrooms signed on Saturday by Chairperson Anne Makori.

Despite noting that majority of the police have generally displayed exceptional conduct, the authority listed three cases that it claims it has subsequently started investigating.

These incidents allegedly involved the shooting of three people by police in Eldas, Wajir County; the victims were all non-fatal.

On August 10, 2022, an officer assigned to the Matisi Police Station in Bungoma County made an attempt to rape a citizen. This incident was also flagged by IPOA.

The Makori-led State agency added that it is looking into a third incident on August 8, 2022, in which a police officer in the county of Uasin Gishu is believed to have shot and wounded a political candidate’s bodyguard.

“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.”