DPP orders further probe into deaths and Injuries from anti-government protests

Director of Public Prosecutions Renson Igonga. [Robert Tomno, Standard]

The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) has instructed further investigations into cases of deaths and injuries from recent anti-government protests.

 The move follows complaints and reports received from the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) on June 30.

The cases under review involve the deaths of Kea Kanyeki and Evans Kiratu Karabin and injuries sustained by Dominic Wanjala Mutua and Janet Markel Obonyo.

In Dominic Wanjala Mutua's case, who was injured during the protests, DPP Renson Igonga noted that the main suspect has denied firing a tear gas canister at him.

Further investigations are needed to verify a video and report from the Communication Authority of Kenya (CAA) related to the incident. The ODPP has also requested a report from a ballistic examiner.

For Kea Kanyeki, investigations reveal that the deceased's relatives identified the body, but those who transported Kanyeki to the hospital, including a key witness who informed the victim's parents, have not yet provided statements. CCTV footage does not identify the shooter.

The ODPP has urged anyone with information, particularly witnesses or those involved in transporting Kanyeki, to come forward and provide statements to IPOA.

 Evans Kiratu Karabin, who died while receiving treatment at Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH), had his cause of death identified as multiple organ injuries from blunt force trauma. The ODPP has directed IPOA to present the matter before a competent court for a public inquest. The office also calls on anyone with relevant information to record statements with IPOA.

 In Janet Markel Obonyo's case, who was shot on June 25 while riding a bicycle, the ODPP is awaiting the investigation file and ballistic report before issuing further directions.

 The ODPP has also instructed IPOA to investigate the shooting of journalist Catherine Sheri Wanulu, which reportedly occurred in Nakuru on June 28. The ODPP urges the public to avoid spreading unverified information that could increase tension and prejudice the right to a fair trial.