The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has launched a formal probe into seven police officers following the forceful arrest and alleged assault of Citizen TV journalist Francis Odee.
The incident occurred in Nairobi's Central Business District during public demonstrations against rising fuel costs. Ode was detained by officers despite repeatedly identifying himself as an accredited media practitioner.
Forced Arrest in Nairobi CBD
Francis Ode was covering the Tuesday demonstrations along Kimathi Street when plainclothes officers confronted him.
Officers manhandled the reporter, tore his clothes, and forcibly bundled him into a police vehicle. He was transported to Nairobi Central Police Station alongside several arrested activists.
During the arrest, Ode told officers more than 10 times that he was a journalist covering the news. Despite his clear identification, he was roughed up and held in custody before later being released without charges.
"I am a journalist! I am a journalist!" he screamed while being whisked into the police van.
Other demonstrators arrested during the crackdown appeared before the Milimani Law Courts and were released on cash bail of Sh5,000 each.
Key Officers Facing Scrutiny
According to a Citizen TV report, IPOA confirmed plans to visit Central Police Station to examine station records and obtain accounts from officers on duty.
Those facing questioning include Central Police Station OCPD and OCS. Five constables captured on camera driving the police land cruiser will also be interrogated.
Investigators are probing allegations that station officers refused to record Odee's assault complaint in the Occurrence Book. IPOA chairperson Dr Duncan Ojwang' Oburu stated that inquiries will determine whether the officers complied with the law and established policing procedures.
Fuel Protests and Media Freedom
The public demonstrations erupted following the latest price review by the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority. The review increased petrol prices by Sh12.93 per litre, diesel by Sh9.90, and kerosene by Sh28.49, sparking widespread public outrage over the rising cost of living.
Media oversight bodies, including the Media Council of Kenya, the Kenya Editors Guild, and the Crime Journalists Association of Kenya, issued statements condemning the harassment of journalists.
They urged the National Police Service to respect constitutional guarantees protecting media freedom under Article 34 and uphold professional standards under Article 244.
IPOA reiterated its commitment to independent investigations, noting that appropriate recommendations will be made to relevant institutions upon completion of the inquiry.
