The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has revealed the extent of complaints and investigations into police misconduct over the past six years in its Board End-Term Performance Report, released on Tuesday, December 10.
According to the report, Nairobi County recorded the highest number of complaints, with 9,286 cases reported. This was followed by Mombasa at 2,779 cases, attributed largely to police actions related to countering violent extremism and youth radicalisation. Kisumu recorded 2,455 complaints, while Eldoret accounted for 1,255.
The report noted that various factors influenced the number of reported cases. For Nairobi, the proximity to IPOA offices and the longer existence of these offices contributed to the high number of complaints. Meanwhile, the population size and the level of economic activity were cited as reasons for the high numbers in Kisumu, Mombasa, and Uasin Gishu Counties.
During the review period, IPOA opened 10,022 cases for investigation, completing 5,655 of these while others remain pending.
As a result of these investigations:
- 33 police officers were convicted of various offences.
- Courts recommended acquittals in 64 cases.
- 52 cases were withdrawn.
- 48 cases were recommended for closure.
IPOA highlighted the significance of its efforts in addressing police misconduct while emphasizing the need for sustained accountability measures within law enforcement agencies.
