Independent Policing Oversight Authority chair Issack Hassan/FILE
A report submitted to the National Assembly’s Departmental Committee on Administration and Internal Security by Ipoa said the cases occurred between February 2025 and the present.
“These cases are being treated with utmost urgency and are at various stages of investigations,” Ipoa stated in its presentation to the committee.
The update came as Ipoa officials appeared before the parliamentary committee to address the ongoing probe into the death of Albert Ojwang, a high school teacher and outspoken social media voice, who died under unclear circumstances while in custody at Central Police Station in Nairobi.
Ojwang’s case has triggered public outrage, protests, and widespread calls for accountability, placing a renewed spotlight on the issue of custodial deaths in Kenya.
In its report, Ipoa outlined several strategies already in place or under development to prevent further deaths in custody and to protect the rights of detainees.
These include regular and impromptu inspections of police stations and detention facilities to assess the conditions of custody and ensure compliance with human rights standards.
“Arising from the investigations, inspections and monitoring operations, Ipoa makes policy and operational recommendations for police reforms to strengthen accountability and protect suspects,” the report noted.
The authority also emphasised its commitment to impartial investigations and the prosecution of cases where misconduct or abuse is established. IPOA said it supports legal action based on findings from its inquiries, working closely with the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP).
To further reinforce safeguards, Ipoa collaborates with the National Police Service to integrate human rights education into police training.
These efforts include lectures and modules at police colleges focusing on lawful arrest procedures and the care of individuals in custody.
“Ipoa is committed to a long-term culture of accountability within the police service. The curriculum partly comprises human rights, lawful arrest, and care of those in police custody,” the report stated.
The authority also runs a public awareness programme encouraging both civilians and police officers to report cases of abuse through confidential channels.
Ipoa highlighted its ongoing partnerships with civil society groups, medical professionals, human rights defenders, and development agencies to improve oversight and enhance protections for suspects and detainees.
Established under the Independent Policing Oversight Authority Act Cap 86, IPOA was created to provide independent civilian oversight over the conduct of the National Police Service.
The agency is mandated to investigate deaths, serious injuries, or allegations of police misconduct, and to push for reforms that align policing practices with the rule of law and constitutional rights.
