The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has launched a nationwide probe into the conduct of police during the Gen-Z anniversary protests held across the country today.
In a Preliminary Monitoring Report released this evening, IPOA confirmed that at least 8 civilians have died, while over 207 individuals have been injured, many with gunshot wounds.
The protests, which mark one year since the 2024 anti-Finance Bill demonstrations, spread to at least 24 counties, with IPOA citing incidents of excessive force, including the use of live ammunition, tear gas, water cannons, batons, and whips.
IPOA noted that some police officers concealed their identities, a violation of legal protocols, as they engaged with protestors.
The Authority also reported widespread interruption of public services, including transport and commercial activities, as well as damage to public and private property.
In what appears to be a coordinated crackdown, 61 suspected protestors were arrested across various counties.
IPOA also flagged the infiltration of demonstrations by unidentified goons, raising concerns about the erosion of peaceful assembly rights.
Officers were also stationed at the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) Situation Room to bolster real-time monitoring efforts.
IPOA says investigations into instances of excessive force are underway and pledged to release a full report with actionable recommendations once monitoring operations conclude overnight.
The IPOA Act under Section 6(c) mandates the Authority to monitor police conduct during public order operations, and today’s deployment underscores the rising scrutiny of law enforcement agencies in the face of recurring civil unrest.
As night falls, Kenya remains tense, with citizens and rights groups watching closely for how security forces will respond in the coming hours.
