The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has issued an update on its investigations into police conduct during the 2024 Gen-Z-led protests against the Finance Bill.
In a statement on Monday, April 28, IPOA stated that it launched several investigations in response to violent clashes between demonstrators and law enforcement officers.
According to the IPOA, out of the 60 death cases registered, the authority has completed 22 investigations, and is actively pursuing 36.
Additionally, the authority confirmed that two cases are currently before the courts.
“Of the completed investigations, 8 are under final internal review, 4 are in the final stages of report writing before submission to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecution (ODPP) for independent review, 2 were closed internally, 4 have been forwarded to the ODPP for review, and 3 were closed following ODPP directives," the statement read.
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IPOA also reported a significant number of injuries sustained during the protests.
It said out of 233 injury cases recorded, 191 remain under active investigation, while the 42 were closed internally and others forwarded to the ODPP.
"Separately, the authority recorded 233 injury cases during the demonstrations, with 191 currently under active investigations. Of the remaining cases, 42 were closed internally, while 2 were forwarded to the ODPP,” the statement added.
Despite making substantial progress, IPOA acknowledged facing considerable challenges in the course of its investigations, including non-cooperation from both police officers and witnesses.
“The Authority also observed instances of non-cooperation from both police officers and witnesses, which has hampered the progress of some investigation. Nevertheless, the Board is actively engaging the police command to address this challenge and ensure justice for all victims," the statement further read.
IPOA emphasized that each case is being treated individually, and pledged to recommend appropriate action whenever culpability is established.
“On a case-by-case basis, if culpability is found, IPOA will make appropriate recommendations to the relevant state agencies and update the public on its findings upon conclusion of its investigations,” the statement concluded.
