The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has expressed serious concerns over the recent attacks on police officers during the ongoing Anti-Finance Bill protests across the country.
In a press release issued today, IPOA highlighted specific incidents including a raid on Bondo Police Station in Siaya County and the assault of a police officer attached to Sigomere Police Station, who is currently receiving treatment for serious injuries at Maxcure Hospital in Kisumu.
The IPOA, which is responsible for monitoring police conduct, has been investigating reports of police excesses during the protests. However, it has also noted with alarm the growing number of attacks on police officers by members of the public.
“IPOA wishes to caution members of the public against attacks on police officers on duty as this impedes the provision of security services, strips the public of policing services, and amounts to the disregard to the rule of law in Kenya,” stated the IPOA Chairperson Anne Makori.
The Authority emphasized the importance of upholding the rule of law and maintaining peace during protests. “In order to promote police accountability, IPOA calls on the public to abide by the rule of law and maintain peace during protests,” Makori added.
IPOA reassured the public of its commitment to being independent, impartial, and fair in carrying out its mandate. The organization continues to monitor the situation closely and urges all parties involved to exercise restraint and respect for the rule of law.
