Investigations have been launched following the fatal shooting of two young men in Ishiara on Tuesday as victims’ families, leaders and human rights groups demand justice.
The victims, 31-year-old Morris Mugo and 21-year-old Patrick Kariuki, were allegedly shot dead by police officers during protests over the deplorable state of Ishiara Level 4 Hospital.
Eastern Regional Police Commander Hillary Birgen, speaking to journalists at Ishiara Police Station on Wednesday, confirmed that multiple agencies, including the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA), the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), and the Internal Affairs Unit had taken over the case.
Birgen strongly condemned the killings, emphasizing that the National Police Service does not condone violence against civilians and assuring the public that any officer found culpable will face the full force of the law.
He added that a specialized homicide team from the DCI had already begun investigations into the deaths.
Mbeere North MP Leonard Wamuthende, on his part, issued a seven-day ultimatum for authorities to complete investigations and bring those responsible to justice.
He said he had formally written to IPOA calling for the matter to be accorded the highest priority and speed given the gravity.
“We cannot allow such heinous acts to go unpunished. Those responsible for the killings of innocent civilians must be identified, arrested, and prosecuted without delay,” Wamuthende said.
He also extended his condolences to the bereaved families, assuring them of his commitment to pursuing justice.
“As your MP, I will not rest until the officers involved in this tragedy are brought to book. We owe it to these families and to the rule of law,” he added.
On his part, Human Rights Activist and Vocal Africa CEO, Hussein Khalid strongly condemned the killings, saying the perpetrators should already be in jail.
“The perpetrators of these killings should already be in jail. There is no justification whatsoever for the use of lethal force against unarmed civilians,” Khalid said.
The family of Morris Mugo expressed their deep anguish, insisting he was not involved in the protests.
His father, Nebart Njoka emotionally recounted how his son was shot after stepping out to see what was happening.
“My son Mugo was not part of the protests. He simply stepped out after hearing commotion, and he never came back,” he said.
His elder brother, Peterson Njeru narrated the painful experience of identifying his brother’s body and the difficulty he faced seeking help from the police.
Meanwhile, the family of Patrick Kariuki is also reeling from the loss with his mother Nancy Karimi describing him as a hardworking young man, who had just begun supporting the family after acquiring his national identification card.
“My son had just started his life. He had gotten his ID and was helping me pay the bills at home. I have lost not just a child, but a pillar of this family,” she said.
“I am in deep pain. I am asking the Government to ensure that justice is served for my son,” she added.
As investigations continue, pressure is mounting on authorities to deliver swift justice in a case that has once again raised serious concerns over police brutality and accountability in Kenya.
By Samuel Waititu
