NAIROBI, Kenya, Jun 8- The state-sponsored Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) has decried the mistreatment of Kenyans by police, during several incidents, some of which ended with fatalities.
In a statement on Wednesday, the human rights group said it was specifically concerned over the killing of four people and wounding of 6 others during a protest along Mombasa Highway at Masimba shopping centre in Kajiado.
The killings occurred during a protest over the human-wildlife conflict in the area.
The locals then told Shahidi News that the perennial wildlife invasion had caused the destruction of property in the area.
“Elephants are causing destruction every day, and our children are not going to school as they are killed by elephants all the time and all the schools are closed due to the elephant invasion,” a Kajiado resident said.
“It is pitiable to watch the uniformed General Service Unit officers, who are deemed to be custodians of law and order, incessantly shooting live bullets aimed at the protestors whose cause was justified,” the commission chairperson Roseline Odede said.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Dr. Fred Matiangi has since rendered an apology to the victims and promised prompt action against those who will be found culpable.
The Independent Policing Oversight Authority has since initiated a probe over the killings, with the motive of bringing the officers involved to book.
Even with that, KNCHR calls for the initiation of an immediate process of redress, accountability, and compensation for the victims of the killings.
“The commission demands the same to be expedited and justice is served,” she said.
The commission has urged police to treat those who were arrested “in a humane manner and with respect of their rights, fundamental freedoms, and dignity as dictated by the law.”
“They must not be subjected to torture or cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment.”
The Masimba incident, KNCHR said, is a pointer to the gaps in the security system, “and is another reminder to the National and County Governments to work together and ensure the full implementation of the County Policing Authorities in all Counties.”
KNCHR said with County Policing Authorities, both police and citizens will have an avenue for intelligence gathering and sharing, “which in turn will play a crucial in detecting and preventing incidents like the Masimba killings.”
Kenyans with information on the Masimba killings have been advised to reach out to the commission through their email address haki@knchr.org or call mobile number 0721 519, 715.
Alternatively, one can reach the commission through its social media platforms on Twitter or send a message through the toll-free number 22359.
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