6 witness statements recorded as IPOA intensifies probe into Nakuru journalist's shooting

The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has made significant progress in its investigation into the shooting of Nakuru-based MediaMax reporter Catherine Wanjeri, who was critically injured by police gunfire during anti-government protests on July 16.

Six witnesses have already provided statements to IPOA concerning the incident, with Rift Valley Coordinator Josephat Kaimenyi revealing that the authority has gathered about 80 per cent of the evidence required to build a case against the officer allegedly responsible for the shooting.

"I want to assure the media and Kenyans that we are on top of our investigation into the harm Wanjeri suffered. Today, we received a crucial document we were waiting for. We promise to do our best," Kaimenyi said during a press briefing on Tuesday.

While covering protests along Kenyatta Avenue in Nakuru City, Wanjeri sustained four gunshot wounds. IPOA has collected CCTV footage from nearby buildings as part of the ongoing investigation and will review it as part of the evidence-gathering process.

The authority is also actively engaging with other government institutions, notably the National Police Service (NPS), to obtain essential documents and ensure the investigation proceeds without delay.

County Police Commander Samuel Ndanyi has assured IPOA of full cooperation, facilitating access to the NPS's necessary records.

"We spoke with the county commander last week, and he is ready to assist us. Today, we are also expecting to record statements from two more witnesses. Only 20 per cent of the investigation remains," Kaimenyi added.

IPOA has called on any additional witnesses to come forward to ensure a comprehensive investigation. "Investigations without witnesses will be incomplete, so I urge everyone to come forward," Kaimenyi emphasised.