The family of a woman who was shot by a police officer in Homa Bay during a vigil held in honour of the late former prime minister, Raila Odinga, on Thursday October 16, 2025, are calling for justice amid claims they are being blackmailed by the suspect.
Speaking on October 22, Woman’s father revealed that the police officer suspected of shooting his daughter has been calling the family asking for forgiveness.
He added that the officer, allegedly the main suspect, has been pressuring family to also consider transferring the case from Homa Bay to Kendu Bay.
“And this man who did this act keeps calling my friends, asking that I forgive him. What exactly am I forgiving him for? He knew what he was doing to my daughter,” he said.
“Just five minutes ago, he called my daughter, telling her not to go to court in Homa Bay but instead take the case to Kendu Bay. Did this incident happen in Kendu Bay or in Homa Bay?” he quipped.
Another member of family asked Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) and the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) to look into the matter and ensure that justice is served.
“We as the family only need justice to be served. I know IPOA and DCI already have the case, but we want to see justice done,” the relative stated.
The woman who was among mourners gathered at the vigil in Homa Bay County.
The incident happened after a candle lighting, where supporters of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party leader marched around Homa Bay town, after which they allegedly moved to a police station.
According to police reports, the mourners threw stones at the station, prompting an officer on duty to open fire.
Sub-County Police Commander Jashon Polloh confirmed that a woman was hit by a stray bullet during the incident.
She died from her injuries while receiving treatment at Homa Bay County Referral Hospital.
