This archive report was first published on 25 August 2020.
Published on August 25, 2020, Nairobi police have come under scrutiny following the weekend killing of eight people suspected of being criminals.
The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has opened an investigation into the incident, with the aim of determining whether the police used lethal force as a last resort.
According to IPOA Chairperson Anne Makori, the authority wants to establish if the police were justified in using lethal force, as a last resort, to prevent what could be a case of extra-judicial killing.
The eight men were shot dead by police on Sunday night after they were allegedly caught stealing from a go-down in Industrial Area. Police claimed they had already loaded some goods on a lorry when they were confronted.
"The investigation team is cognisant that use of lethal force by police officers shall be the last resort and when applicable, the determination is made in accordance with the laid down procedures," said Makori in a statement.
Authorities reported recovering two homemade guns and machetes from the scene of the crime.
Kenyan police have faced criticism over increased cases of extra-judicial killings, with IPOA recommending charges against several officers whose cases are pending in court.
