IPOA opens probe into fatal police shooting during Embu hospital protests

The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has launched investigations into a fatal shooting incident in Embu County that left two people dead and several others injured following a confrontation between police and protesting residents.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, IPOA said the incident occurred on April 14 in Mbeere North Sub-county, where residents had staged demonstrations over concerns regarding the status and service delivery at Ishiara Level 4 Hospital.

According to the authority, police officers were deployed to the area to restore order after the protests escalated, during which gunfire was reported.

“Two people sustained fatal gunshot injuries, while others suffered various injuries as police allegedly made efforts to restore public order during the incident,” IPOA said in the statement.

The watchdog agency confirmed that it has dispatched a Rapid Response Team to the area to begin investigations into the circumstances surrounding the shooting, in line with its legal mandate to probe deaths and injuries resulting from police action.

“In line with the provisions of the IPOA Act, which mandates the Authority to investigate deaths and injuries occasioned by police action, a Rapid Response Team has this morning been dispatched to the area with instructions to gather all relevant information,” the statement read.

IPOA said the probe will seek to establish the sequence of events leading up to the shooting, including the conduct of the officers involved and whether the use of force was justified under the law.

“Where fault is established, the Authority shall make appropriate recommendations, including but not limited to prosecution,” it added.

The authority also extended condolences to the families of the victims and wished a speedy recovery to those injured during the confrontation.

“Meanwhile, the Authority condoles with the families and friends of those who lost their lives and wishes those who were injured a full recovery,” the statement said.

The protests in Ishiara were reportedly triggered by public dissatisfaction over healthcare services at the Level 4 hospital, with residents demanding improvements in staffing, equipment and service delivery. The situation escalated, prompting police intervention.

IPOA Vice Chairperson Ann Wanjiku Mwangi urged residents to remain calm and allow investigations to proceed without interference.

“The Authority further appeals to area residents to remain calm and allow due process of the law to take its course,” she said.

The incident adds to growing scrutiny over the use of force by law enforcement officers during public demonstrations, with civil society groups often calling for greater accountability and adherence to policing standards.

IPOA reiterated its commitment to conducting independent, impartial and transparent investigations, noting that it will provide updates to the public as the inquiry progresses.

“IPOA remains committed to conducting its investigations in an independent, impartial, and fair manner, and to providing periodic updates to the public on the progress of the investigation,” the statement concluded.