Police under scrutiny for excessive force during the June 25 protest suppression, as per IPOA's claim
Policing Oversight Authority Slams Police Actions During June 25 Protests
The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has expressed concern over the tactics employed by Kenyan police during the protests that rocked the nation on June 25, 2025, commemorating the anniversary of the 2024 anti-tax demonstrations.
In a statement issued on June 25, IPOA announced that it had kicked off nationwide monitoring operations, with officers deployed across the country to evaluate the police's handling of public order. The Authority also revealed that it had representatives present at the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) Situation Room to foster real-time collaboration in monitoring the protests as they unfolded.
According to the preliminary findings, IPOA reported protests occurring in no less than 24 counties, resulting in the loss of eight lives and more than 207 injuries, a considerable number of which involved gunshot wounds. Authorities recorded injuries among police officers as well, though no specific numbers were provided. police arrest records indicated around 61 protesters were in police custody. Reports also showed the intrusion of violent elements into demonstrations, leading to widespread damage on both public and private property[1].
IPOA communicated its deep concern over the excessive and variable force used by law enforcement, tactics ranging from live ammunition, tear gas, water cannons, whips, and batons. The Authority additionally highlighted instances of officers hiding their identities, a practice it declared contravenes legal provisions concerning police accountability[1].
The Authority announced that its monitoring operations would continue throughout the night and promised to release a detailed report containing actionable recommendations for relevant state bodies[1].
For more information on the aftermath of the June 25 protests, explore the links below:
- We can't let Kenya slip into chaos, says Kindiki after protests
- Shollei blasts Maraga over protest role, defends police action
- Cabinet approves Bill barring President from appointing political allies to state corporations
- Gachagua's DCP demands arrest of perpetrators of June 25 violent protests
[1] Kenya: IPOA criticizes excessive force in protests, vows action[2] IPOA investigates police conduct during June 25 protests[3] Kenya protests leave eight dead, 207 injured, and widespread destruction[4] IPOA deploys monitors in 24 counties amid nationwide protests[5] Amnesty International: 16 killed during Kenya protests
- The excessive use of force, including live ammunition, tear gas, and batons, among other tactics, by Kenyan police during the June 25 protests raises concern, as outlined by the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA).
- Beyond the political sphere, the health implications are significant, with the preliminary findings indicating at least eight deaths and over 207 injuries, many of which involved gunshot wounds.
- Concurrent with the protests, numerous incidents of crime and damage to both public and private property occurred, signaling a potential intersection between general news, crime and justice, and war and conflicts.
