The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has launched investigations into the death of a boda boda rider who died while in police custody at Kawangware Police Post.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, December 16, the authority said the probe was initiated in line with its legal mandate to investigate deaths and serious injuries suspected to result from police actions.
IPOA identified the deceased as Jack Leon Matoke, a boda boda rider who had been arrested and detained at Kawangware Police Post on Thursday, December 11, pending transfer and booking at Muthangari Police Station in Nairobi County.
IPOA Probes Death of Boda Boda Rider in Police Custody at Kawangware. Photo: Courtesy.
The authority noted it has already visited and documented the scene, established contact with the deceased’s family, and attended the post-mortem at the City Mortuary.
The authority noted that these steps form part of its ongoing investigations into the custodial death.
IPOA said the outcome of the investigations will determine the next course of action, including possible referrals to the Director of Public Prosecutions if criminal liability is established.
The authority added that the findings will inform its subsequent public communication on the status of the probe and any recommendations made to relevant state agencies.
IPOA has also urged the public and the family of the deceased to remain calm as investigations into Matoke’s death continue.
