Suspects to remain in custody until July 10 as IPOA seeks more time to conclude investigations
The Milimani Law Courts have granted the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) an additional seven days to complete investigations into two police officers accused of fatally shooting a hawker during a crowd dispersal operation in Nairobi’s Central Business District.
The suspects, Klinzy Barasa and Duncan Kiprono, both attached to Kileleshwa Police Station, will remain in custody at Capitol Hill Police Station until July 10, following the court’s ruling on Thursday.
The officers are under investigation over the shooting of Boniface Kariuki Mwangi, popularly known as Eli Joshua, a surgical face mask vendor who died after sustaining critical head injuries along Moi Avenue.
While IPOA had initially requested a 14-day extension, parties later agreed to a seven-day period, which Senior Principal Magistrate Ben Mark Ekhubi approved.
“The judiciary stands in solidarity with the family of the deceased and is committed to ensuring that justice is served,” Magistrate Ekhubi said, extending condolences to the family on behalf of the judiciary.
Video footage widely circulated online appears to show one officer shoving Kariuki while another fires at close range as the vendor attempts to walk away. Witnesses told investigators that Kariuki was not participating in the ongoing protests at the time of the incident.
Kariuki was rushed to Kenyatta National Hospital, where he was admitted to the Intensive Care Unit. He was declared brain-dead on June 29 and passed away the following day.
His father, Jonah Kariuki, has urged authorities to ensure justice is served.
The officers were arrested on June 18 and have been in custody since. IPOA told the court it is finalising forensic analyses, ballistic examinations, and additional witness interviews before concluding its probe.
The case has sparked national outrage and prompted responses from top government officials. President William Rutoconveyed his condolences to the family and donated Sh1 million to assist with funeral expenses.
Local MPs visiting the family relayed the president’s message of solidarity, while leaders and human rights groups have condemned the incident, demanding accountability.
Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja reiterated that the National Police Service will not shield officers found culpable of misconduct.
Meanwhile, the Law Society of Kenya (LSK) has pledged legal support to the family in their pursuit of justice.
IPOA has indicated that charges, including attempted murder and unlawful use of a firearm, are under consideration.
By Were Kelly
