In the wake of growing public outcry over police conduct during last year’s Gen Z protests, Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja has issued a directive compelling all police units to fully cooperate with investigations led by the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA).
This move follows recent concerns raised by IPOA Chairman Issack Hassan, who noted that a lack of cooperation from both police officers and some witnesses has slowed progress in several investigations, particularly those related to the deaths that occurred during the June 2024 protests. Hassan said the authority has been forced to escalate the issue to top police leadership to avoid further delays in justice.
“The authority observed cases where both police officers and witnesses failed to cooperate, severely affecting the pace and outcome of our probes,” Hassan stated during a press briefing on Tuesday. As a result, multiple investigative files submitted to the Directorate of Public Prosecutions (DPP) have been returned to IPOA for further clarification and additional evidence.
To address the problem, the police chief has now issued a memo instructing all commanders and heads of police units to provide IPOA with all necessary support. The memo emphasizes IPOA’s constitutional role in holding law enforcement accountable and directs officers to share any documentation or information required for ongoing investigations.
“The Inspector General has been informed of IPOA’s complaints about resistance from some police units. He now directs that all officers must fully comply with IPOA’s requests as part of their legal obligation,” the memo reads in part.
The directive comes shortly after Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen pledged action against police officers who abuse their power. Speaking during a tour of Isiolo County, the CS reaffirmed the government’s stance on justice and accountability within the police service.
“We stand with officers who act to protect themselves and the public, but we will not shield any individual who misuses their authority to harm civilians,” Murkomen asserted.
Tensions around police accountability have intensified following the fatal shooting of five civilians by police in Narok County on Monday, reportedly over a land dispute. IPOA has confirmed that it is actively investigating the incident.
As pressure mounts from the public and rights organizations, all eyes are now on how the police service and IPOA will handle the ongoing investigations and deliver justice to victims of police excesses.
