IPOA Probes Police Use Of Force During National Drama Festival In Nakuru
The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has launched investigations into the use of force by police officers during the Kenya National Drama and Film Festival held at Melvin Jones Hall in Nakuru.
The probe follows complaints that students, teachers, journalists, and members of the public were subjected to police violence, including the use of tear gas, during the event.
IPOA Chairperson Ahmed Issack Hassan said the Authority deployed its officers to Lions Primary School, Nakuru, where the national festival was taking place.
He noted that IPOA’s presence was prompted by reports indicating the need for urgent oversight, especially because minors were participating.
“By 5am IPOA team was on ground,” said Hassan.
He said there was heavy police presence at the venue, where officers had blocked the main gate and were only allowing entry to accredited officials.
According to Hassan, the National Police Service (NPS) team—comprising Kenya Police Service (KPS), Administration Police Service (APS), and Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) officers in uniform and plain clothes—was heavily armed with batons and guns.
He noted that a school bus carrying students from Butere Girls arrived at the venue around 7am.
Shortly after, incidents that prompted IPOA’s investigation occurred, including the use of tear gas.
He said IPOA is aware of complaints from other authorities about police officers using force against journalists, students, teachers, and members of the public.
IPOA urges the police to act with professionalism when managing public order.
“IPOA will continue to monitor the situation closely and carry out impartial investigations. If any officer is found criminally responsible, IPOA will recommend prosecution or disciplinary action. These recommendations will be promptly submitted to the relevant authorities,” Hassan added.
The National Police Service has also launched its own probe into the alleged assault on journalists during the event.
NPS Director of Communication Muchiri Nyaga said the police leadership is deeply concerned by reports circulating on social media and in mainstream media showing officers interfering with journalists in the line of duty.
In a statement released on Thursday, Nyaga reaffirmed the NPS’s commitment to respecting media freedom and upholding the Constitution and the Media Council Act, 2013.
“Any unprofessional conduct by police officers—such as harassment, intimidation, or obstruction of journalists—will not be tolerated,” the statement read.
Nyaga assured that disciplinary action would be taken against any officers found guilty of misconduct.
“The incident is under investigation, and decisive action will be taken once facts are established,” he said.
The incident has drawn sharp criticism from human rights groups, media watchdogs, and members of the public, who have called for justice and accountability.