The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has launched an investigation after a deadly shooting that left three people dead and several others severely injured in Lolkuruk Village, Angama Mara, Narok County.
On Thursday, June 5, a battalion of police officers reportedly opened fire on civilians for allegedly invading private property within the Angama Conservancy.
The residents then faced off with the police officers over the land tussle. While trying to block and calm the situation, the police opened fire, leading to three deaths and several injuries.
The seven who were injured were rushed to hospitals and health centres in the nearby shopping centre, where they are being treated for serious gun wounds.
It remains unclear whether the officers acted in response to a perceived threat or if excessive force was used.
In response to the fatal incident, IPOA, through its chairman Issack Hassan, revealed that the Authority dispatched a Rapid Response Team to Lolkuruk Village early Friday morning to begin investigations.
The team has been instructed to collect all relevant information to establish the circumstances that led to the shooting and determine whether police officers were justified in their actions.
''In line with the provisions of Section 7(1)(a)(x) of the IPOA Act, CAP 86 of the Laws of Kenya which mandates the investigation of deaths and serious injuries resulting from police actions, the dispatched team has been instructed to gather all information relevant to uncovering the circumstances surrounding the incident,'' the statement read in part.
Further, IPOA has called on the residents to exercise calmness even as tension continues to rise in the county that has been a prime victim of land tussles that have led to multiple deaths.
''Meanwhile, the Authority extends its condolences to the families of those who lost their loved ones and to those who were injured. It also appeals to residents to remain calm and allow the due process of law to take its course,'' IPOA said.
Affected families and community leaders have expressed frustration, claiming police brutality against civilians is an ongoing issue in the region.
The Authority has assured the residents that it will make appropriate recommendations to the relevant State agencies and will update the public on its findings upon the conclusion of its investigations.
