Probe opened after students shot in Nakuru
Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) and Independent Policing and Oversight Authority (IPOA) have commenced investigations into the Sunday shooting of two students allegedly by a senior police officer in Nakuru.
Bondeni OCS Eric Wekesa was reportedly leading a team of officers on patrol in Flamingo Ward to weed out criminal gangs when a standoff ensued after officers rounded up a group of youths alleged to be gang members.
During the incident, the OCS is alleged to have drawn his pistol after the group started charging toward them demanding the release of those arrested and, in the process, firing a shot that wounded Ruth Waithera’s arm before hitting Whitney Anyango in the stomach.
Anyango died at the Nakuru Level Five Hospital while undergoing treatment whereas Waithera is undergoing treatment with doctors hinting at a possible amputation.
They are said to have been on their way home when they were caught up in the melee. The two are Form Four students of Nakuru Central Secondary School. Investigating agencies Yesterday, County Commissioner Erastus Mbui while confirming the incident said the two investigative entities, including the Police Internal Affairs Unit, have taken over the matter involving OCS Wekesa.
Addressing a group of irate Flamingo Ward residents who had marched to his offices demanding the arrest of Wekesa, Mbui called for tolerance as the due process is followed terming the incident unfortunate.
Mbui who was accompanied by County Police Commander Beatrice Kiraguri said the law would be followed.
“I want to urge all of you not to take matters into your own hands, the law will be followed to the letter and there is no doubt about that, no parent would wish to lose their children in such a manner,” said Mbui.
On her part, Kiraguri said the incident was saddening, insisting that if indeed her officers were involved, they will face the full force of the law calling for patience to allow mandated entities to do their work without interference.
“We have gotten in touch with IPOA after the incident happened, that is what the law directs, since it’s an independent body we expect swift results, also, the DCI have opened a file and we need to give them time,” said Kiraguri.
Justus Kimani a resident said the OCS shot in the air twice forcing everyone to scamper for safety and a stray bullet hit the arm of one student tearing through the flesh before hitting the deceased in the stomach.
He, on noticing the incident, the OCS called in the patrol vehicle to rush the duo to the hospital for emergency treatment
“It is unfortunate that this has happened, the OCS had on numerous occasions threatened to shoot someone, this is a misuse of firearms by police which should be condemned,” Kimani alleged
