Fresh twists have emerged in the investigation into the tragic death of Rex Masai, raising serious questions about accountability and transparency in police operations. The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) revealed on Tuesday, July 23, that the CCTV footage of Masai's shooting fails to clearly identify the shooter, casting a shadow over the investigation.
The ODPP's statement pointed to a critical gap in the evidence, further complicated by the reluctance of key witnesses to come forward. Despite this setback, the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has submitted four investigative files concerning police use of force during anti-finance bill protests.
However, the quest for justice remains thwarted by a lack of cooperation from those who witnessed the events.
The Director of Public Prosecutions, Renson Ingonga, noted the challenges faced by investigators. "The files by IPOA have revealed that witnesses remain reluctant to come forward," Ingonga said. The absence of witness statements is particularly troubling in the case of Rex Kanyeki Masai, where those who transported him to the hospital have remained silent.
The ODPP is urging anyone with information about the shooting to assist in the investigation. "I call upon any person with information pertaining to this case, especially the witnesses who took the deceased to the hospital and those who witnessed the shooting, to come forward and record a statement with IPOA," the ODPP pleaded.
In another disturbing case, the ODPP has directed a public inquest into the death of Evans Kiratu Karobia. Karobia, who allegedly suffered a fatal beating by police officers, died of organ failure at Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH). Despite the gravity of the allegations, no one has come forward to provide statements about the assault.
"I have directed IPOA that this matter be placed before a competent court for a public inquest," the ODPP stated, reflecting the gravity of the situation and the need for a transparent judicial process.
The ODPP is also reviewing the case of Gianna Markel Obonyo, a young girl who was shot while riding her bicycle in her parents' compound on June 25, 2024. She underwent surgery to remove a bullet from her lower back at KNH. "I shall review the case and make further directions once the investigations file is resubmitted with the ballistics report," the ODPP assured.
Despite extensive investigations, no individual has been held accountable for Obonyo's shooting. The ODPP has called on the public to provide any information that could aid the investigation. "To date, the investigations carried out so far have not found any person culpable and I call upon the public or any person with information pertaining to this case to come forward and record a statement with IPOA," the ODPP appealed.
In the case of Dominic Wanjala Mutua, who suffered injuries allegedly caused by a teargas cannister fired by police, the main suspect has denied the allegations. The ODPP has instructed further investigations to verify the authenticity of the video evidence provided by the Communications Authority of Kenya (CA).
"I have also directed that a report from the ballistic examiner be availed," stated the ODPP, emphasising the need for thorough and conclusive evidence to ascertain the truth behind the incident.
Further, the ODPP has ordered an investigation into the shooting of Catherine Njeri Wariuki, a reporter for Kameme FM and TV, which occurred in Nakuru County on July 16, 2024.
