This archive report was first published on 12 June 2020.
Published on June 12, 2020, a disturbing video went viral on social media showing a 21-year-old woman being dragged behind a moving motorbike in Kuresoi South, Kenya.
The woman, Mercy Cherono, was allegedly subjected to brutal assault by three police officers, including the Deputy Officer Commanding Olenguruone Police Station in Nakuru county.
According to Cherono, the officers accused her of stealing a gas cylinder, a TV set, and clothes, which led to the violent actions.
Regional Police Commander Marcus Ochola condemned the incident and ordered a probe into the conduct of the officers.
Following the uproar on social media, the Independent Police Oversight Authority (IPOA) launched investigations into the incident, alleging assault, injury, and misconduct by the police officers.
"This morning, IPOA learnt of an incident in which members of the National Police Service allegedly tied a woman to a motorcycle, drove the bike while dragging and whipping the woman," said IPOA chairperson Ann Makori.
The three officers were arrested, and Mercy Cherono is currently nursing her injuries at the Olenguruone Hospital in Kuresoi South.
