Two police officers suspected of fatally shooting a young man in Nairobi’s Imara Daima area over the weekend will remain in custody for 14 days as investigations into the incident continue.
Milimani Magistrate Caroline Mugo on Monday allowed an application by the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) to detain Sergeant Godwin Mjomba and Constable Patrick Mutunga Titus pending the conclusion of ongoing investigations.
Court Allows Detention Pending Investigations
In court filings, IPOA told the court it is investigating the fatal shooting of Shukri Adan Ibrahim Issaka, who was shot dead at around 6:10am near the MCC area within the jurisdiction of Villa Police Station.
The oversight agency had initially sought 21 days to complete its investigations. However, the court ruled that 14 days would be sufficient, citing the need to balance investigative requirements with the rights of the suspects.
Alleged Cover-Up Under Investigation
According to IPOA, preliminary findings indicate that the two officers are suspected to have been involved in an attempted cover-up following the fatal shooting.
The court heard that although the officers have cooperated since being summoned and placed in custody, investigators require additional time to conduct further interviews, analyze evidence, and prevent possible interference with the probe.
IPOA further disclosed that the officers’ mobile phones have been seized but are yet to undergo forensic examination, a process described as critical to establishing the sequence of events and communication before and after the shooting.
Public Outrage and Security Concerns
The court was also informed that the killing sparked widespread public anger, triggering demonstrations that later turned destructive in parts of the city.
“In light of the prevailing public sentiment, the safety and security of the two officers cannot be guaranteed at this stage should they be released on bail,” IPOA told the court.
Investigators argued that continued detention was necessary not only to safeguard the integrity of the investigation but also to ensure the officers’ own safety amid heightened tensions.
IPOA Seeks Time for Thorough Probe
IPOA emphasized that the nature of the death, combined with alleged post-incident actions by the suspects, warranted a comprehensive and conclusive investigation.
“Considering the circumstances surrounding the deceased’s death and the subsequent attempts at concealment, IPOA requires additional time to complete its investigations,” the agency submitted.
The matter will be mentioned after the lapse of the 14-day detention period for further directions.