The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has officially launched a thorough investigation following a deadly incident where police officers reportedly opened fire on civilians in Lolkuruk Village, located within Angama Mara, Narok County.
The shooting left three people dead and several others nursing serious injuries.
The tragic event occurred on Thursday, June 5, when a large number of police officers allegedly fired bullets at residents who were said to have invaded private land inside the Angama Conservancy.
The situation escalated as tensions grew between the officers and locals during a standoff over an ongoing land dispute. In an effort to control the crowd and restore calm, the police resorted to firing live ammunition, which resulted in the loss of lives and several injuries.
Seven individuals who sustained serious gunshot wounds were quickly taken to nearby hospitals and health centres for urgent medical attention. The exact reason for the police opening fire remains uncertain, with questions being raised over whether the officers were genuinely threatened or if they used unnecessary and excessive force.
In reaction to the incident, IPOA Chairperson Issack Hassan announced that the Authority deployed a Rapid Response Team to the affected village early on Friday morning. The team’s primary task is to begin collecting evidence and statements that will help establish the events that led to the shooting.
“The team has been directed to gather all necessary details that will shed light on what happened and determine whether the actions of the police officers were lawful,” the IPOA statement read.
Hassan added that the investigation falls under Section 7(1)(a)(x) of the IPOA Act, CAP 86 of the Laws of Kenya, which mandates the Authority to investigate any deaths or serious injuries that result from police operations. IPOA assured the public that their goal is to uncover the truth and ensure accountability.
At the same time, IPOA urged the residents of Lolkuruk and the larger Narok County to remain calm and peaceful while the investigations are ongoing. Narok County has, in the past, witnessed frequent and often violent land disputes that have resulted in injuries and fatalities.
“We extend our deepest condolences to the families that lost their loved ones and wish quick recovery to those who were injured. We appeal to the community to remain calm and allow the legal process to take its course,” the statement added.
Many local families and community leaders have expressed anger and sorrow, saying that police violence against unarmed civilians has become all too common in the area. They are demanding justice and immediate action to prevent such brutality in the future.
IPOA has promised that, once investigations are complete, it will share its findings with the public and issue clear recommendations to relevant government agencies to ensure accountability and justice for those affected.
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