Editor's Review

The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has swung into action after the shooting of Rex Kanyike.

The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has launched an investigation into the shooting of Rex Kanyike Masai on Thursday during protests in Nairobi.

In a statement on Friday, June 21, IPOA noted that it had already established contact with the deceased's family after he was allegedly shot by police.

"The Authority has documented the death of Mr. Rex Masai allegedly as a result of police shooting and several serious injuries suffered by other demonstrators including police officers.

"Accordingly, and in accordance to Section 7 of IPOA Act, the Authority has this morning launched investigations into the fatal shooting and our investigation team has since established contact with the family of Mr. Masai," IPOA stated.

The oversight authority called on the police to exercise restraint during their work, even as it asked members of the public to remain peaceful.

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"The Authority calls for continued restraint by the Police and calls on members of the public to be peaceful and conduct themselves within confines of the law. The Authority condoles with the family of Mr. Masai, friends and all Kenyans affected by the unfortunate event," IPOA added.



The police had not yet commented on the incident at the time of publishing this story.

The death of Kanyike sparked outrage on social media on Friday as netizens demanded justice for the fallen young man.

On X, Kenyans, under the hashtag, #JusticeForRex, demanded the officer linked to the shooting be arrested and tried in court.

Meanwhile, Inspector General of Police Japhet Koome released a statement on Thursday evening warning Kenyans protesting against the Finance Bill against trying to occupy parliament building.

IG Koome said the National Police Service (NPS) will not allow demonstrators to storm critical government infrastructure.