Amnesty International has released a new report revealing that about 11 people lost their lives during the anti-government demonstrations in Kisumu and Kisii two weeks ago
The report, released in conjunction with the Law Society of Kenya and the Kenya Medical Association, shows that police used excessive force to disperse protestors during the riots.
“Between 28-30 July 2023, Amnesty International Kenya, the Law Society of Kenya and the Kenya Medical Association visited Kisumu and Kisii Counties,” the three organisations noted in a joint statement.
“We are saddened to report that preliminary investigations confirm that at least eleven people were killed, most suffering bullet wounds and a few cases of blunt-force trauma.”
The findings of the report also revealed that 107 police assault cases were recorded in the two regions during the period, with 47 of these being gunshot related.
“Initial reports indicate that police shot indiscriminately at unarmed protestors, including those who had surrendered or were running away from the police,” the statement added.
“In one incident, an unarmed protestor, who served as an eyewitness in an arson incident, was shot and killed by a police officer.”
According to the three bodies, the State should assure the safety of families and victims who are yet to report violations out of fear of intimidation or re-victimisation at police stations.
Amnesty International Executive Director Irungu Houghton has urged the Independent Policing Oversight Authority to conduct an independent probe into the said cases of police killing Kenyans because of using excessive force.