This archive report was first published on 14 September 2019.
On September 14, 2019, a fatal encounter between police and a suspected drug peddler in Bungoma town left one dead and raised questions about the use of force.
According to County Criminal Investigation Officer Daniel Muleli, Isaac Ngong'u was gunned down after resisting arrest and engaging officers in a fight. Muleli stated that Ngong'u was brandishing a panga and a toy pistol at the time of the incident.
The killing occurred at Mocca village within Mandizini estate, and Muleli confirmed that investigations are ongoing. In a statement, he said, 'We have recalled all the guns used during the shootout.'
Ngong'u's relatives have come forward, disputing the police account of events. His father, John Mutugi, described Ngong'u as a businessman who sold second-hand clothes at Chebukube Market. Mutugi alleged that his son could have been killed in a well-planned attack by the police and urged the Independent Policing Oversight Authority to investigate.
Evans Mutugi, Ngong'u's brother, also spoke out, claiming that his brother was shot at close range by the police. The body was taken to Bungoma County Referral Hospital mortuary.
