By Micheal Chukwuebuka, Reporting
AUTHORITIES in Kenya have launched an investigation into the death of a protester who was shot during the mass anti-tax demonstrations in the capital Nairobi on Thursday.
Stonix News reports that the incident has sparked widespread outrage and intensified scrutiny of police actions amid the escalating protests.
The man, identified as Rex Masai, was present at one of many protests against a controversial finance bill going through parliament, and was allegedly shot with live ammunition by a police officer.
On Friday, the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA), said it has “documented the death of Mr. Rex Masai allegedly as a result of police shooting and several serious injuries suffered by other demonstrators including police officers.”
Reporters with CNN witnessed protesters being tear-gassed by police, resulting in a journalist being injured by a canister on Thursday.
According to civil society groups, earlier in the week, mass arrests were recorded in Nairobi, with over 200 people detained by police.
“The Authority has this morning launched investigations into the fatal shooting and our investigation team has since established contact with the family of Mr. Masai,” the IPOA statement said.
IPOA called for “continued restraint by the police” and urged the members of the public “to be peaceful and conduct themselves within the confines of the law.”
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