IPOA launches probe after fatal shootings during Embu protests
By Kenneth Mwenda, April 15, 2026The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) is investigating the deaths of two people who died from gunshot wounds after police clashed with demonstrators in Embu County on Tuesday, April 14, 2026.
The protest took place outside Ishiara Level 4 Hospital in Mbeere North Sub-county. Residents took to the streets because they were angry about the poor state of the hospital. They complained about shortages of essential drugs, lack of staff, and bad service delivery.
In a statement on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, IPOA said officers responded to the demonstration and tried to restore public order. Two people sustained fatal gunshot injuries during the incident while several others received various injuries.
IPOA confirmed it has sent a Rapid Response Team to the area. The team will gather information and establish exactly what happened. The Authority acts under the IPOA Act, which requires it to investigate deaths and injuries caused by police action.
“Where fault is established, the Authority shall make appropriate recommendations, including but not limited to prosecution,” the statement read.
“The Authority condoles with the families and friends of those who lost their lives and wishes those who were injured a full recovery.”
It urged residents to stay calm and let the law take its course.
Police defend response actions
The National Police Service (NPS) also issued a statement on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, expressing sympathy to the families.
“The National Police Service commiserates with the families, friends, and relatives of two persons who tragically lost their lives near Ishiara Level 4 Hospital, Embu County, yesterday, April 14, 2026. Any loss of life is something that the Service takes great exception to, as one life lost is one too many,” the NPS said.
Police said the demonstration started peacefully but turned violent., Criminal elements joined the crowd and used stones and other crude weapons, they claimed. Officers stepped in to restore order but met more violence.
“The situation deteriorated, resulting in violent confrontations during what initially began as peaceful demonstrations,” the police statement explained.
“The police swiftly intervened to restore law and order, only to be met with more violence from criminal elements carrying all manner of crude weapons, including stones and other dangerous projectiles.”
The NPS promised full cooperation with IPOA. It has started its own investigation and called on anyone with information to come forward. The service said it believes in the rule of law and will work with oversight bodies to find out the truth and deliver justice.