The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has launched investigations into the fatal shooting of Rex Masai, a protester who was killed during the anti-Finance Bill demonstrations. The incident occurred on June 20, along Moi Avenue in the Central Business District (CBD).
In a statement, IPOA confirmed that an investigative team began probing the shooting which involved a plain clothes police officer.
“The Authority has this morning launched investigations into the fatal shooting of Mr Rex Masai, allegedly as a result of police shooting,” IPOA stated.
Rex Masai, 29, was fatally shot in the left thigh while in a crowd of people running away from the police. He was unarmed, only carrying his phone and national Identity card.
The shooting was caught on camera, showing the denim-clad officer aiming at the protester before firing.
After he was shot, Masai’s friend requested the police for help, but they told him, “wacha akufe.”
The heavily-bleeding Masai was taken Bliss Medical Centre around Archives by fellow protesters. But having lost a lot of blood, he was declared dead upon arrival at around 7:38 PM.
Rex Masai Taken to City Mortuary
Human Rights Activist Boniface Mwangi, who met with Masai’s mother, said, “I have met with Rex’s mum, and we are on our way to City Mortuary. Since it’s a homicide, the police have said the body has to be booked in a public mortuary.”
The IPOA has also been in contact with Masai’s family to support the investigation process. They noted that they have documented all serious injuries from the protests, including those sustained by police officers.
The use of live ammunition by police during the protests has drawn significant criticism.
Embakasi East MP Babu Owino stated, “Rest in peace Rex. This is so heartbreaking to lose a comrade in the hands of a police officer who’s supposed to protect Kenyans.”
The postmortem for Rex Masai is scheduled for next week.
By Vivian K.