IPOA Issues Update on Probe Into Citizen TV Journalist Odee Francis’ Arrest

The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has given an update on investigations into the arrest of Citizen TV journalist Odee Francis while covering fuel hike protests in Nairobi CBD.  

In a statement on Thursday, October 22, IPOA Chairperson Duncan Ojwang said the authority launched investigations on October 20, following the incident. 

Ojwang noted that the authority contacted Odee on Wednesday, October 21, to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident.

“At the time of the incident, Mr. Francis was covering protests against the recent increase in fuel prices. 

“On 21st October 2026, the Authority contacted Mr. Francis as part of its preliminary investigations to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident,” read the statement in part. 

The IPOA Chairperson said officials from the authority will visit Central Police Station, examine relevant police records and obtain accounts from officers deployed to manage public order during the protests.

According to Ojwang, the probe will seek to establish the circumstances surrounding Odee’s arrest and detention and determine whether the officers involved acted in accordance with the law

“These inquiries will seek to establish the circumstances of the arrest and detention and determine whether the actions of the officers involved complied with the law and established policing procedures,” he stated. 

Further, Ojwang said IPOA will make appropriate recommendations to relevant institutions once the investigations are complete, including accountability measures if culpability is established.

He also said the authority would consider recommendations to strengthen cooperation and professional relations between police officers and journalists. 

“IPOA remains committed to promoting accountable and professional policing while safeguarding the constitutional rights and freedoms of all Kenyans,” the statement added. 

Odee was arrested on Tuesday, October 20, while covering fuel price hike protests along Kimathi Street in Nairobi CBD. 

In a video seen by Nairobileo.co.ke, the reporter is seen being roughed up alongside other protesters before being bundled into a police vehicle.

Attempts by other journalists to stop the plainclothes officers from arresting Odee proved futile.

Odee was taken to the Central Police Station, where he was briefly held before being released.