Kenya’s Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) is investigating the death of Rex Masai, a protester who was shot during anti-tax protests in Nairobi. This event has caused widespread anger and increased attention to police behavior during the ongoing demonstrations against a controversial finance bill in parliament.
Rex Masai, identified by authorities, was allegedly shot with live ammunition by a police officer while participating in one of the numerous protests. The IPOA confirmed Masai’s death as a result of a police shooting and also documented several other injuries suffered by demonstrators and police officers alike.
Kenya Investigates Police Shooting of Protester Rex Masai Amid Anti-Tax Protests in Nairobi
On Thursday, a CNN team observed police using tear gas on protesters, which led to a journalist being injured by a tear gas canister. Earlier in the week, civil society groups reported that over 200 people were detained during mass arrests in Nairobi as the protests escalated.
In its statement, the IPOA announced the launch of a formal investigation into the shooting and mentioned that their team had contacted Masai’s family. The authority emphasized the need for police restraint and called on the public to remain peaceful and adhere to the law during the protests.
