15
Tue, Oct

LSK files petition on behalf of victims of police brutality

LSK Kisumu chapter chair Dorcas Oluoch addressing the press in Kisumu. Photo/Leonard Murunga

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By Leonard Murunga

The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) Kisumu chapter on Wednesday filed a petition on behalf of 29 victims of police brutality, pushing for justice and compensation.

The victims allegedly suffered after being met with brutal force from police officers, during protests against the high cost of living, in 2023, called by Azimio la Umoja One Kenya, leaders.

Speaking outside the Kisumu Law Courts after filing the petition, Dorcas Akinyi Oluoch, LSK Kisumu chapter said they received numerous complaints of police brutality, and settled on the 29 after collecting enough evidence in collaboration with civil society organisations.

“Innocent lives were lost, families were shattered and many residents were left with scars, both visible and invisible,” said Oluoch.

“We called upon duty bearers to exercise their mandate and put an end to these grave violations of human rights. Sadly, to date, no one has been held accountable for these atrocities,” she added.  

The 29 cases, she added, involve victims of police brutality, ranging from serious injuries to death. One of those killed is Benard Ochieng Otana who succumbed to excessive internal bleeding while receiving treatment, after allegedly being shot by a police officer.

Another victim, David Ochieng Ouma was reportedly shot by police officers at the Nyando River bridge, in Ahero town, at the height of the street demonstrations dubbed Unga revolution.

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Some family members of victims of police brutality. Photo/Leonard Murunga.

He was rushed to Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital (JOOTRH), popularly known as Russia, where he succumbed to injuries two days later.

Everline Akhala said she lost two of her loved ones, William Akhala Amulele, her son and Brian Oniang’o, her brother’s son on July 26, 2024, while receiving treatment at JOOTRH, after alleged physical assault by police officers.

The respondents in the case are Inspector General of Police, the National Police Service (NPS), the National Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) and the Attorney General.