IPOA Launches Probe into Deadly Police Shooting at Garissa

The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has launched an investigation into the police shooting incident resulting in the death of Mr. Adan Mohamed Hassan on 21 April 2026 in Garissa County at the Modika Barrier.

This follows a legal requirement for a notification to the IPOA from the National Police Service.

The incident happened in the early hours of the day and is receiving considerable public attention due to increased focus on the use of force by the police.

“The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) Rapid Response Team today embarked on an investigation into the shooting death of Mr. Adan Mohamed Hassan on 21 April 2026 near the Modika Barrier in Garissa County,” the statement read.

As per IPOA, the investigation of this case was officially kicked off after receiving the notification of the incident from the National Police Service, as per the procedure laid down by the oversight regulations on cases involving the loss of life through police action.

“The Authority has since started the investigation of the matter upon receipt of the official report of the incident, as provided by law,” IPOA stated.

From the initial findings, it is reported that at around 2:20 a.m., the late gentleman went out in response to an appeal for help from a friend who had been detained.

In the process, he was alleged to have sustained injuries when his car was damaged by officers from the DCI unit based in Balambala.

It is further stated that Mr. Hassan sustained a gunshot wound to the head that led to his death.

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Early Findings and Scene Reconstruction

IPOA has outlined a series of investigative steps already undertaken by its Rapid Response Team in efforts to establish a clear sequence of events.

These include attendance at the post-mortem examination, recording of witness statements, acquisition of relevant police documentation, and securing of key exhibits from the scene.

The Authority has also documented the crime scene extensively, including both police and civilian vehicles believed to have been damaged during the incident.

“IPOA investigators have undertaken several actions, including attending the post-mortem examination, recording witness statements, obtaining police documents, securing critical exhibits, documenting the crime scene, and documenting both the police and the damaged civilian motor vehicles.”

Additionally, the oversight authority has called upon the general populace to be calm, highlighting the fact that self-control is key to guaranteeing the smooth running of the investigation process.

The Authority maintains that its findings will be based strictly on verified evidence and procedural fairness,

Also Read: Police Officer Convicted in IPOA-Probed Grievous Harm and Assault Case

“IPOA continues to appeal to the public to remain calm, emphasizing that this is crucial for the smooth progress of ongoing investigations into the incident.”

In concluding its statement, IPOA stressed its institutional commitment to impartiality and independence in handling the matter.

The Authority highlighted that its role is to ensure that policing standards are upheld and that any breach of conduct is addressed through lawful mechanisms.

The investigation remains ongoing, with further updates expected as inquiries progress.

“The Authority remains committed to conducting independent and impartial investigations into the matter.”

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Statement by IPOA on the shooting incident in Northern Kenya. PHOTO/ IPOA