The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) has spoken on several cases of alleged police misconduct.
At the center of this unfolding story is the tragic killing of Rex Masai, a case that has captured national attention and sparked widespread debate on police accountability.
On July 23, 2024, the ODPP’s office released a comprehensive statement addressing not only Masai’s case but also four other incidents involving suspected police brutality or misconduct.
ODPP On Four Investigation Files by IPOA
The ODPP revealed that CCTV footage of Masai’s shooting fails to conclusively identify the perpetrator.
Director of Public Prosecutions Renson Ingonga highlighted the difficulties faced by investigators, stating,
“The files by IPOA have revealed that witnesses remain reluctant to come forward.”
This reluctance is particularly troubling in Masai’s case, where even those who transported him to the hospital have remained silent.
In response, the ODPP has issued a public appeal:
“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.”
One victim, Evans Kiratu Karobia, allegedly died from organ failure at Kenyatta National Hospital after being severely beaten by police officers. Due to the lack of witness statements, the ODPP has ordered a public inquest, stating, “I have directed IPOA that this matter be placed before a competent court for a public inquest.”
The shooting of Gianna Markel Obonyo, a young girl struck by a bullet while riding her bicycle on June 25, 2024, is also under investigation.
The ODPP stated
“I shall review the case and make further directions once the investigations file is resubmitted with the ballistics report.”
Despite extensive inquiries, no one has been held accountable, prompting another public appeal:
“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.”
In Dominic Wanjala Mutua’s case, allegedly injured by a police-fired teargas canister, the main suspect has denied involvement.
The ODPP has ordered additional investigations, including verification of video evidence and a ballistics report, stating, “I have also directed that a report from the ballistic examiner be availed.”
Lastly, the ODPP has initiated 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.
