The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has announced that investigations into the fatal shooting of a 14-year-old Grade Six pupil in Mombasa are at an advanced stage, as pressure mounts for accountability over police use of force.
In a statement on January 6, 2026, IPOA said it launched investigations following the death of Dennis Ringa Swaleh, who was shot on New Year’s Eve at Utange–Swale Nguru Shopping Centre in Kisauni Sub-county, Mombasa County.
The probe was formally opened on January 2, 2026, days after the incident that shocked residents and sparked public outrage.
“The Independent Policing Oversight Authority launched investigations into the fatal shooting of a 14-year-old boy on New Year’s Eve and wishes to give a status update,” the Authority said in the statement.
According to IPOA, investigators have already interviewed key witnesses, including police officers and members of the public who were present during the incident.
Statements from these witnesses have been recorded as part of efforts to establish what transpired before and after the shooting.
The Authority further disclosed that crucial evidence has been secured.
“Evidence from the scene of the incident and other police documents have been obtained and preserved,” IPOA said, underscoring the importance of safeguarding materials that may be relied upon in future legal proceedings.
IPOA investigators also attended the postmortem examination conducted on January 5, 2026, a move aimed at independently verifying the medical findings surrounding the cause of death.
The Authority noted that further investigative steps are ongoing, including plans to interview additional witnesses.
“Further, more witnesses are set to be interviewed and some of the evidence collected will be submitted for ballistic examination,” the statement said, indicating that forensic analysis will play a key role in determining the circumstances under which the firearm was discharged.
Once investigations are completed, IPOA said it will submit the inquiry file to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), accompanied by recommendations on whether any police officers involved should face criminal charges.
“After the investigation is completed, the Authority will forward the investigation file to the Director of Public Prosecutions with necessary recommendations as to the culpability of the officers concerned,” IPOA stated.
The Authority expressed condolences to the family and friends of the deceased, acknowledging the pain caused by the loss.
IPOA reaffirmed its mandate, stressing its commitment to accountability within the National Police Service.
“IPOA commits to fair, impartial and independent investigations,” the statement said.
