A BBC Africa Eye investigation has determined that three individuals fatally shot by Kenyan police during a national memorial service for former Prime Minister Raila Odinga last October were not participating in the confrontation that led to the gunfire. Analysis of footage and spatial positioning indicates the victims were located between 60 and 160 meters away from the area where mourners clashed with officers guarding a VIP section at Nairobi’s Kasarani Stadium.
The three deceased—Evans Kiche, Vincent Ogutu, and Jidah Burka—were killed by gunshot wounds while positioned at considerable distances from the scuffles. BBC forensic analysis suggests that members of an elite presidential protection unit may have discharged the fatal shots. Autopsy reports confirm the causes of death, with one victim shot in the head and another in the chest.
Kenya’s Interior Minister defended the police response, characterizing it as “restrained” and attributing the shooting to officers operating under significant pressure after being reassigned to the venue on short notice. He referenced stone-throwing by some mourners, though BBC analysis of over 1,500 images and videos showed objects such as plastic chairs being thrown without evidence of stones. Officials noted that the last-minute venue change from parliament to the stadium left insufficient time for adequate security arrangements.
Nearly a year following the incident, Kenya’s Independent Policing Oversight Authority continues its investigation with no charges filed. Family members of the deceased have expressed anguish over the deaths and the lack of accountability. The National Police Service acknowledged the need for improved procedures, while the IPOA has not responded to requests for comment regarding the ongoing investigation.
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