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The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has begun investigations into a deadly shooting in Embu County that resulted in two deaths and multiple injuries during protests over healthcare services at Ishiara Level 4 Hospital.
In a statement released Wednesday evening, IPOA said it had deployed a Rapid Response Team to Mbeere North Sub-county to determine the circumstances under which police reportedly opened fire on protesters. The incident took place on Tuesday.
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According to IPOA, two individuals died from gunshot wounds, while several others were injured as police allegedly attempted to restore order.
The authority noted that the investigation falls within its mandate to examine deaths and injuries linked to police actions, adding that appropriate steps, including possible prosecution, will be taken if any wrongdoing is established.
IPOA also expressed condolences to the families of those who lost their lives and wished a quick recovery to the injured, urging residents to remain calm as investigations continue.
The probe comes shortly after the National Police Service (NPS) stated that the protest had been infiltrated by criminal elements, leading to violence and destruction of property.
Police said residents of Evurore Ward had initially planned a peaceful demonstration to protest the state of services at the hospital, but the situation escalated when groups armed with crude weapons, including stones, disrupted the protest.
NPS reported that several businesses were vandalized and bystanders injured, maintaining that officers were responding to restore order.
The service added that the demonstration was taken over by individuals who were not interested in peaceful protest or maintaining law and order.
NPS confirmed that a full documentation and accountability process is underway and that IPOA has been formally notified to carry out independent investigations, with a commitment to cooperate fully.
The incident has also drawn criticism from Cecily Mbarire, who condemned the use of force against unarmed protesters and called for accountability.
IPOA said it will continue to provide updates as the investigation progresses, reaffirming its commitment to independent and impartial oversight.
