Ipoa raises alarm over police conduct during Gen Z anniversary protests

The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) chairperson Issac Hassan flanked by commissioners during a press conference at their offices on the update on investigation into the death of Albert Ojwang' on June 18 2025./ FILE

The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (Ipoa) has released a preliminary monitoring report detailing serious concerns over police conduct during the Gen-Z anniversary protests held on June 25.

In accordance with Section 6(c) of the Ipoa Act, the Authority launched nationwide monitoring operations on Wednesday morning, deploying its officers to observe how the National Police Service managed public order during the demonstrations commemorating the 2024 Finance Bill protests.

Ipoa also placed officers at the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights Situation Room to enhance bilateral collaboration.

According to the Authority, demonstrations were reported in 24 counties.

The protests, however, turned tragic, with Ipoa documenting eight civilian deaths and at least 207 injuries, some involving gunshot wounds.

The report also confirms that several police officers sustained injuries.

Ipoa further recorded the arrest of at least 61 suspected protesters countrywide, infiltration of demonstrations by goons, and widespread destruction of public and private property.

Critically, the Authority highlighted that its monitoring team documented “the use of excessive and varied force by police officers, including live ammunition, tear gas, water cannons, whips, and batons, among other measures.”

Ipoa noted that officers concealed their identities, which is “contrary to the law.”

Additionally, the protests disrupted normal life, with “interruption of free movement and normal public service operations including public transport, policing services, and commercial activities.”

The Authority has launched preliminary enquiries into the areas of concern and pledged to “expedite investigations into cases where excessive force was documented during the public order management of the protests.”

Monitoring operations will continue overnight, after which Ipoa will release a full report with “actionable recommendations to relevant authorities.”

Kenyans wishing to lodge complaints have been encouraged to reach out through the various contact numbers provided by the Authority.