BUSIA, Kenya — The National Police Service is facing mounting scrutiny after a staff member attached to Busia Woman Representative Catherine Omanyo was allegedly shot dead during chaotic protests in Busia Town.
The deceased, identified as Frederick Odiwuor, popularly known as “Papa,” reportedly died after being struck by bullets during confrontations between residents and police officers on Tuesday.
The protests were linked to public anger over rising fuel prices and escalating tensions in the town.
Omanyo demands justice
Confirming the incident, Omanyo expressed grief over the death of her staff member and called for accountability from the authorities.
“I have received with deep sorrow the news of the passing of my staff member Frederick Odiwuor (Papa),” she said in a statement.
“Papa succumbed to a bullet fired by a police officer in Busia. I am personally following up on the matter with the relevant authorities to ensure that the circumstances surrounding this incident are addressed and justice is pursued,” she added.
Chaos outside the police station
Residents said tensions escalated after angry youths reportedly stormed Busia Police Station following an earlier shooting incident in the area.
Police officers allegedly fired shots to disperse the crowd as confrontations intensified.
According to locals, Odiwuor, who operated a barber shop in Busia Town, had left home after hearing reports that suspected goons planned to vandalise his business during the unrest.
Witnesses said he went towards the police station to report the matter, but arrived when the situation had already turned volatile.
Witnesses recount shooting
Residents claimed Odiwuor was first hit by a bullet as police attempted to disperse crowds gathered outside the station.
Witnesses further alleged that he was shot a second time while attempting to flee from the scene.
According to accounts from locals, the second bullet struck him in the chest near the heart, leaving him critically injured.
Relatives said residents attempted to rescue him, but he later succumbed to the injuries.
Calls for investigations
Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah condemned the incident and called for immediate investigations.
He urged the Interior Ministry, the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA), and the Directorate of Criminal Investigations to establish the circumstances surrounding the fatal shooting.
The incident has renewed concerns over police use of force during public demonstrations, particularly amid rising political and economic tensions across the country.
