IPOA condemns mob attack on police officers in Vihiga

The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has condemned an incident where police officers on patrol were violently attacked by residents in Cheptulu, Tiriki East Sub-County, Vihiga County.

The incident occurred along the Muhudu-Shaviringa Road when officers from Shaviringa Police Post encountered individuals suspected of engaging in unlawful activities. 

According to police reports, the suspects raised an alarm that drew the attention of locals, who responded by assaulting the officers.

One officer sustained serious injuries and is currently receiving medical treatment.

In a statement issued on Thursday, IPOA Chairperson Issack Hassan termed the attack as an unacceptable warning that such acts of mob justice severely undermine the rule of law and public order.

“It is wholly unacceptable for individuals to take the law into their own hands. Such actions undermine the rule of law, promote lawlessness, and erode the foundations of public order and security," said Hassan.

He further lamented that some citizens resort to the same violence they accuse police officers of, noting that such actions threaten to reverse the gains made through ongoing police reforms aimed at enhancing accountability and professionalism in the service.

“Such conduct defeats the spirit and intent of ongoing police reforms and risks reversing the progress made,” he added.

IPOA urged members of the public to channel any grievances involving police conduct through established legal and oversight mechanisms, including the authority itself, rather than resorting to mob action.

The authority reaffirmed its commitment to conducting impartial, fair, and apolitical investigations in pursuit of justice and public accountability.

Investigations into the incident are ongoing as the injured officer continues to receive care.