IPOA launches probe into shooting of KMTC student in Nairobi

The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has launched investigations into the fatal shooting of a Kenya Medical Training College (KMTC) student in Huruma, Nairobi County.

The victim, identified as 21-year-old Sheril Adhiambo, was allegedly shot dead by police officers on February 7 during an operation targeting suspected robbers. The incident has sparked protests and tension in the area.

In a statement, IPOA said it has deployed a Rapid Response Team to the scene to establish the circumstances surrounding the shooting. The team is collecting evidence, recording witness statements, and analysing available exhibits as part of the probe.

According to the National Police Service (NPS), the incident followed a report made at Huruma Police Station earlier that morning by a man who claimed he had been attacked by five individuals known to him. The victim reported that the assailants robbed him of a silver chain and Ksh 1,800 in cash and threatened to kill him.

Police officers responding to the report arrested two suspects. Further investigations later led to the arrest of two more suspects in the evening.

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The NPS stated that during the second arrest, one suspect allegedly raised an alarm, drawing a crowd of youth who began pelting officers with stones and other objects in an attempt to disrupt the operation. Police officers reportedly fired warning shots into the air to disperse the crowd, during which Adhiambo was fatally shot.

The Saturday shooting sparked protests with residents engaging police in running battles that continued into Sunday.

The police service has urged residents to remain calm, allow investigations to take their course, and refrain from acts of lawlessness in order to restore peace in the area.

By Obegi Malack