The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) has condemned the violent treatment of a Multimedia University student by police during a student strike at the institution on Tuesday. A video of the incident, which has since gone viral, shows armed officers physically assaulting Trevor Mureithi and dragging him to another location. Mureithi is seen limping, indicating that he was already injured.
At one point, a police officer deployed a teargas canister dangerously close to Mureithi, which could have caused serious harm. Fortunately, he managed to move away just before the canister exploded.
In a statement on Wednesday, KNCHR Chairperson Roseline Odede strongly criticized the police's actions, stressing that all Kenyans have the right to peaceful assembly and the right to have their dignity respected. "Trevor was clearly in pain, limping and needing medical attention. The police should have recognized this and responded appropriately, but instead they inflicted more injuries, leading to his hospitalization," said Odede.
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She denounced the impunity shown by the police and called for an end to such brutality, adding that the force must uphold the rule of law, given the resources invested in their training.
Odede also drew parallels to a recent incident during anti-government protests, where a teargas canister fatally injured a demonstrator. "It is disturbing to see similar violent scenes, recalling the tragic death of a protester outside Parliament due to a teargas canister explosion," she noted.
She urged the Inspector General of Police to immediately investigate the incident and ensure that the officers involved are held accountable. Additionally, she called on the National Police Service (NPS) to take responsibility for Trevor's medical treatment as part of reparations for him and his family.
Odede highlighted the importance of investing in the mental well-being of police officers, so they can carry out their duties with respect for the law and the public. "The rule of law must be upheld, and police officers should be committed to their mission of 'Utumishi kwa Wote' (service to all). Any breach of the law will result in individual accountability," she emphasized.
Meanwhile, the Independent Policing and Oversight Authority (IPOA) has launched an investigation into the incident. IPOA CEO Elema Halake stated that once investigations are complete, appropriate action will be taken, including potential prosecution of the involved officers if found culpable. Halake reiterated that police officers must conduct their duties professionally and in line with the Constitution.
