NAIROBI, Kenya – The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) has issued an update on the investigation files it received from the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) regarding the deaths and injuries sustained during the Gen Z protests in June 2024.
The protests, which spread across various parts of the country, led to widespread allegations of police brutality, including extrajudicial killings and injuries inflicted on unarmed demonstrators.
In a statement released on April 30, 2025, the ODPP detailed its review of the inquiry files and provided clarity on the status of investigations and the next steps in each case.
The office reported that several files have been referred back to IPOA for further investigation, while others have been closed due to a lack of evidence or police involvement.
One of the high-profile cases involves the death of Evans Kiratu Karobia, who succumbed to injuries from blunt force trauma on June 20, 2024, in Nairobi’s Central Business District.
Despite initial investigations, no eyewitnesses came forward, and there were no gunshot wounds found on the victim.
The ODPP referred this case to a public inquest, which is currently ongoing with witness testimonies expected to continue into mid-2025.
Another significant case is that of Rex Kanyike Masai, who died from gunshot wounds to his left thigh.
However, the investigation faced challenges due to the lack of cooperation from key witnesses, including the individuals who transported Masai to the hospital.
This case was also referred to a public inquest, and hearings are scheduled for May 2025.
The shooting of Gianna Markel Obonyo, who suffered a gunshot wound in her lower back on June 25, 2024, is currently under review by the ODPP pending the release of the ballistic report on the bullet extracted from her body.
Press Statement on the Status of Files from IPOA on Gen Z Protests.#HakiNaUsawa
Dr. Lilian Nyawanda, Commissioner of Customs and Border Control at KRA, reiterated that further directions will be issued once the necessary documentation is complete.
In the case of Dominic Wanjala Mutua, a journalist who was injured by a teargas canister fired by police on June 18, 2024, the ODPP directed IPOA to conduct additional investigations, particularly regarding the authenticity of a video showing the incident.
The ODPP also emphasized that it is critical to ensure all video evidence is verified before making any legal conclusions.
The statement also revealed that some cases have been closed due to insufficient evidence, including the deaths of Tillan Odhiambo and Lewis Mroso.
In both instances, medical evidence did not suggest police involvement, prompting the ODPP to follow IPOA’s recommendation to close the files.
However, investigations into the deaths of other individuals, such as Sammy Cullen Maina and Frankline Ondwari, continue, with the ODPP working closely with IPOA to clarify the circumstances.
The update further highlights the ongoing effort by the ODPP to handle cases involving police officers, such as the shooting of police officer Anthony Mwangi by another officer, which has been subjected to the ODPP Diversion Policy, pending further review and feedback from IPOA.
The ODPP also urged the public to come forward with any information related to the pending cases, emphasizing the importance of collaboration between law enforcement agencies and the public in ensuring justice for the victims of these tragic incidents.
The office reiterated its commitment to working with other agencies to ensure the safety of victims and witnesses throughout the investigative and judicial processes.
A report by IPOA, issued after a shocking documentary by The BBC, indicates Denzel Omondi death was caused by drowning.Omondi was among GenZ protesters who made it to Parliament precincts on June 25, 2024.His body was found floating in an abandoned quarry in Juja, Kiambu
