An Administration Police officer, Peter Wamiti, will remain in detention for 14 days as the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) investigates the fatal shooting of a businessman in Karatina town.
Wamiti is accused of shooting George Gathu on Sunday, January 18, at around 11 pm. He appeared before Senior Resident Magistrate Mary Gituma at Nyeri Law Courts, where prosecutors asked the court to detain him for 21 days.
The court reduced the period to 14 days, citing risks to the officer’s safety following widespread public anger and the possibility that witnesses could be influenced if he were released on bail.
“This court notes the public outcry over the issue and finds that the security of the officer is a concern,” Magistrate Gituma said. “While the officer may be admitted to bail/bond, I don’t find that to be appropriate at this stage for the above reasons.”
IPOA said the shooting occurred after a brief encounter between Gathu and police officers patrolling the town. The incident prompted protests and condemnation from residents and civil society groups, who have demanded transparency and accountability in the case.
Wamiti is expected back in court on February 3 to enter a plea.
Human rights defenders have called for a prompt, independent investigation to deliver justice for Gathu’s family and maintain public trust in law enforcement.
