The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has launched investigations into the alleged assault of a 17-year-old boy while in police custody at Narosusura Police Station in Narok South Sub-County.
According to a statement released on Friday, October 24, IPOA confirmed that the minor, identified as Felix Senet Takona, was arrested on suspicion of committing a petty offence and is currently receiving treatment at Narok County Referral Hospital following the incident.
“IPOA has commenced investigations into an alleged case of police assault involving minor Felix Senet Takona, who is reported to have been arrested on suspicion of a petty offence at Narosusura Police Station in Narok South Sub-County,” the Authority stated.
“The minor is currently receiving treatment at Narok County Referral Hospital following the alleged incident.”
The oversight body said it will establish the circumstances surrounding the boy’s arrest, detention, and injuries, and determine the extent of police involvement.
“In line with its mandate to ensure accountability and observance of human rights in policing, IPOA is investigating the circumstances surrounding the alleged arrest and subsequent injury of the minor,” the statement read. “The Authority will determine the extent of police involvement and, where necessary, make appropriate recommendations for redress.”
The Authority reiterated its commitment to conduct the investigation impartially and uphold its constitutional duty to hold police officers accountable for misconduct.
The Form Two student’s condition sparked public outrage and calls for justice after reports emerged that he was brutally tortured in custody.
The teenager was allegedly beaten with metal chains and had a corrosive substance poured on his legs in an attempt to force a confession for a crime he insisted he did not commit.
Doctors treating the boy at Narok County Referral Hospital have described his condition as critical, warning that his injuries have developed severe infections that could lead to amputation.
Despite his deteriorating health, the minor was reportedly sentenced to two years in prison after an alleged coerced guilty plea.
Authorities, however, declined to admit the boy to prison due to the severity of his injuries, and he continues to receive treatment at the hospital.
