UK, Netherlands condemn police brutality in Nairobi, demand independent probe
The statements followed widespread outrage after a police officer was captured on video shooting a protester at close range during a demonstration calling for justice for teacher Albert Ojwang.
The United Kingdom and Netherlands embassies have condemned police violence during protests in Nairobi, calling for an independent and transparent investigation into the actions of officers involved in the brutal crackdown.
Their statements came after widespread outrage over the shooting of a protester at close range by a police officer during a demonstration demanding justice for teacher Albert Ojwang, who died in police custody on June 7.
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The Tuesday incident, captured on video, has intensified public concern over growing police brutality.
“We are deeply disturbed by the violence against unarmed civilians and protestors yesterday. We urge a swift, independent and transparent investigation into the actions of the police,” said the Netherlands embassy.
“Police forces must command the trust & confidence of those they are duty-bound to serve & protect.”
The UK embassy echoed the call for accountability and restraint, urging authorities to uphold the highest standards in policing.
Trust and confidence
“We urge a swift, independent and transparent investigation into the actions of the police,” it said, adding, “Police forces must command the trust and confidence of those they are duty-bound to serve and protect.”
Both embassies expressed sympathy to the victims.
“We send our best wishes for the swift recovery of those injured during yesterday’s violence,” the statements said.
The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights said it recorded 22 casualties during Tuesday’s protests in Nairobi, Mombasa, Kilifi, and Kwale.
“The other injuries range from gunshot wounds, head cuts, whiplashes, blunt trauma, and asthma attacks after inhaling teargas,” the commission said, confirming that Boniface was shot at close range while peacefully protesting in Nairobi.
The protests were triggered by the death of Ojwang, who is alleged to have died in police custody at Central Police Station.
The Independent Policing Oversight Authority has questioned several officers over the incident. The Central Police Station OCS, a cell sentry officer, and six civilians are currently in custody as investigations continue.
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