Bob Njagi Released as IPOA Investigates Alleged Rights Violations During Protests

Kitengela-based activist Bob Njagi has been released after the High Court in Kajiado overturned a magistrate’s order that had allowed police to detain him for seven days over allegations of treason. Instead of remaining in custody, the court directed Njagi to report daily to the Kitengela Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) as investigations continue.

His release comes as the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) intensifies investigations into alleged human rights violations linked to the June 25, 2026 demonstrations held to commemorate the second anniversary of the Gen Z protests. The oversight body says it has begun documenting complaints of alleged abductions, unlawful detention, torture, physical assaults, and enforced disappearances reported during and after the nationwide protests.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, IPOA revealed that it deployed monitoring teams across the country to observe police conduct during the demonstrations, in line with its statutory mandate. Preliminary findings indicate that the authority raised concerns over police officers allegedly operating in plain clothes while carrying firearms and using vehicles with concealed registration plates, actions IPOA says are contrary to existing court orders and established policing standards.

The authority further disclosed that investigators have already recorded statements from victims and witnesses regarding alleged abductions and injuries sustained during the protests, particularly in Nairobi’s Central Business District. IPOA is also investigating an incident involving a person living with a disability who was reportedly injured during demonstrations in Nakuru.

While emphasizing that investigations remain ongoing, IPOA called on the National Police Service (NPS) to uphold professionalism, respect constitutional rights, and adhere to the rule of law when policing public demonstrations. The authority also urged protesters to exercise their constitutional freedoms peacefully and without carrying weapons while using lawful avenues to express their grievances.

IPOA has assured the public that its investigations will be conducted independently and impartially, adding that any officer or individual found responsible for violating the law will be held accountable. The investigations come amid increasing scrutiny over the handling of recent protests and growing concerns from human rights groups over allegations of excessive force, unlawful arrests, and enforced disappearances.