The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has launched investigations into the death of a man who died while in police custody at Muthangari Police Station in Nairobi County.
In a statement issued on Monday, December 15, IPOA said the probe was initiated following the death of Mr. Jack Leon Matoke, also known as Boba Boda rider, who was being held at the station pending transfer and booking.
According to the authority, Matoke was detained at Muthangari Police Station on Thursday, December 11, 2025.
He later died under circumstances that have now triggered mandatory investigations under Section 7(1)(a)(x) of the IPOA Act, which requires the authority to probe all deaths and serious injuries resulting from police actions or occurring in police custody.
“As part of the investigation, the authority has already visited and documented the scene, established contact with the family, and attended the post-mortem at the City Mortuary today, Monday, December 15, 2025,” IPOA said.
The oversight body noted that the findings of the investigation will inform its subsequent public communication, including recommendations to relevant state agencies and, where criminal liability is established, the submission of files to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP).
“The arising findings will guide the Authority’s subsequent public communication on the status of the investigations and the actions taken, including the submission of appropriate recommendations to relevant State agencies, notably the Director of Public Prosecutions, if criminal liability is determined,” IPOA noted.
IPOA urged members of the public and the affected family to remain calm as investigations continue, assuring them that the process would be conducted independently, impartially, and free from external influence.
The death adds to a growing number of cases under scrutiny involving fatalities in police custody, a recurring concern that has fueled public debate around accountability within law enforcement agencies.
IPOA reaffirmed its mandate to ensure police accountability and safeguard the rights of individuals interacting with law enforcement, stating that it remains committed to fair and transparent investigations.
