IPOA launches probe into police conduct during Multimedia University protest

7The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has launched a comprehensive investigation into police behaviour following a tumultuous protest at Multimedia University on Tuesday.

This is after a video surfaced on social media, depicting police officers assaulting a young protester.

This incident escalated when the police used tear gas, leading to an explosion and a fire in a girls' hostel. Fortunately, quick action by university staff managed to extinguish the flames before they could cause further harm.

This is a 1st year student at Multimedia University of Kenya been brutally mistreated inside the school premises during the MMU protests.This MUST stop.Imagine you as a parent seeing this after umesacrifice a lot only for the police to do this. 😞💔@LarryMadowo @citizentvkenya pic.twitter.com/BPmgOm4leq

— King pk (@Qiddypk1) September 17, 2024

In a statement on Wednesday, IPOA confirmed that a Rapid Response Team was sent to the university. Their mission includes verifying the claims made in the widely circulated video showing the police assault.

"A Rapid Response Team was dispatched to the varsity and among other instructions, to establish the veracity of a video clip widely shared on social media, depicting a youth being assaulted by police officers," IPOA said.

The protest, organised by students, aimed to address poor sanitation issues stemming from a lack of water and also called for the installation of WiFi.

Concerns have intensified, particularly after it was revealed that one student suffered a serious injury, specifically a fractured foot, during the altercation.

"The Authority has established the identity of one student who sustained a fracture in his foot," IPOA stated.

The investigation will also examine the police's use of tear gas, which IPOA described as being deployed recklessly.

"IPOA reiterates that members of the National Police Service (NPS) should discharge their mandate professionally and responsibly in accordance with Article 244 of the Constitution," they added.

IPOA has pledged to take swift and decisive action following the investigation.

"Upon conclusion of the investigation, IPOA will recommend action, including but not limited to prosecution of officers if culpability is established," added the statement.