IPOA probes Embu shooting during protests

The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has launched investigations into a fatal shooting incident in Embu County that left two people dead and several others injured during protests over healthcare services at Ishiara Level 4 Hospital.

In a statement issued on Wednesday evening, IPOA said it had dispatched a Rapid Response Team to Mbeere North Sub-county to establish the circumstances under which police allegedly opened fire on demonstrators.

The incident occurred on Tuesday.

“Two people sustained fatal gunshot injuries, while others suffered various injuries as police allegedly made efforts to restore public order,” IPOA said.

The authority said the probe is being conducted in line with its mandate to investigate deaths and injuries arising from police action, adding that appropriate action will be taken if culpability is established.

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

It also condoled with the families of those who lost their lives and wished the injured a quick recovery, while urging residents to remain calm as investigations proceed.

The probe comes hours after the National Police Service (NPS) said the protest had been infiltrated by criminal elements, leading to violence and destruction of property.

According to police, residents of Evurore ward had initially notified authorities of plans to hold a peaceful demonstration over the state of services at Ishiara Level 4 Hospital.

However, the situation reportedly escalated after groups armed with crude weapons, including stones, disrupted the protest.

“Although the protests began well, what was witnessed soon afterwards was a shocking and unacceptable degeneration into criminal acts and violence by people who were not peaceful protesters,” NPS said in an earlier statement.

The service said several businesses were vandalised and bystanders injured during the chaos, maintaining that officers were responding to restore order.

“The initial intentions were hijacked by individuals who were never interested in peaceful protests, law or order,” the statement added.

NPS confirmed that a full documentation and accountability process had been initiated and that IPOA had been notified to conduct independent investigations, pledging full cooperation.

The developments follow earlier condemnation by Embu Governor Cecily Mbarire, who criticised the use of force against unarmed protesters and called for accountability over the incident.

IPOA said it will provide periodic updates as investigations continue, reiterating its commitment to impartial and independent oversight.