By Alice Njeri
The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) criticized the reported incident in which a police officer on duty was attacked and seriously injured this afternoon by members of the public in Cheptulu, Tiriki East Sub-County, Vihiga County.
“According to initial reports, officers from Shaviringa Police Post, while on patrol along the Muhudu–Shaviringa Road, encountered individuals they deemed suspicious,” said Ahmed Hassan, the chairperson of IPOA
As a matter of consequence, the suspects reportedly raised an alarm, prompting members of the public to launch an attack that resulted in serious injuries to one of the officers.
“The Authority wishes to reiterate that, with a functioning National Police Service and an independent Judiciary in place, it is wholly unacceptable for individuals to take the law into their own hands,” continued Hassan.
He further noted that such actions not only undermine the rule of law, promote lawlessness but also erode the foundations of public order and security.
IPOA has repeatedly shown its dedication to ensuring police accountability by thoroughly investigating misconduct and effectively pushing for prosecutions that result in convictions. This highlights the presence of legitimate and reliable channels for the public to address grievances related to police misconduct.
“It is, therefore, deeply regrettable when members of the public resort to the very forms of violence and lawlessness they condemn in police officers,” said Hassan
This behavior goes against the goals of improving the police and might undo the progress made in making them more responsible and professional.
Finally, the authority urged members of the public to continue exercising restraint and to report any incidents of police misconduct to IPOA or other relevant oversight bodies.