NAIROBI, Kenya — The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has launched investigations into the fatal shooting of a 21-year-old student in Huruma, Nairobi County, following allegations that she was shot during a police pursuit of suspected robbers.
In a statement issued on Monday, IPOA confirmed that its Rapid Response Team from the Nairobi Regional Office was deployed on Sunday, February 8, to investigate the shooting that occurred on the evening of Saturday, February 7, 2026.
The victim, identified as Sheril Adhiambo, reportedly died after being shot amid a police operation in the densely populated Huruma area 361b.
IPOA said investigators are actively collecting evidence, interviewing witnesses, and analysing samples and exhibits to establish the circumstances under which the shooting occurred.
The findings, the authority noted, will inform recommendations to relevant agencies, including potential criminal or disciplinary action if culpability is established.
“The Independent Policing Oversight Authority has commenced investigations into a fatal shooting incident that occurred in Huruma, Nairobi County, in which a 21-year-old student lost her life, allegedly during a police pursuit of robbery suspects,” IPOA said in the statement 361b.
The watchdog extended condolences to the family of the deceased and urged members of the public to remain calm as investigations continue.
IPOA assured the family and the public that the inquiry will be independent, impartial, and thorough, in line with its constitutional mandate to oversee police conduct and ensure accountability.
The incident adds to growing public concern over the use of lethal force by police officers during operations in residential areas.
Human rights organisations have repeatedly raised alarms over bystander deaths linked to police pursuits, particularly in informal settlements and high-density neighbourhoods where operations often take place near civilians.
Under Article 244 of the Constitution of Kenya, the National Police Service is required to comply with constitutional standards of human rights and fundamental freedoms, while IPOA, established under the Independent Policing Oversight Authority Act, is mandated to investigate deaths or serious injuries resulting from police actions.
IPOA’s intervention in the Huruma case follows a series of recent high-profile investigations into police conduct, reflecting heightened scrutiny of law enforcement operations and renewed calls for accountability within the service.
The authority has in the past recommended prosecutions, disciplinary action, and policy reforms based on its findings, though implementation of its recommendations has often faced institutional and legal hurdles.
At this stage, IPOA has not disclosed whether any officers have been suspended or disarmed pending the outcome of the investigations. The authority said it will communicate further updates as inquiries progress.
The killing of Adhiambo is likely to intensify debate around policing methods, rules of engagement, and the protection of civilians during security operations. For the family, however, the focus remains on truth and accountability.
IPOA reiterated that its investigations are aimed at establishing the facts and ensuring that justice is served, “to establish culpability and ensure accountability,” the statement said.
