IPOA blocks release of officer accused of killing Garissa taxi driver

by Joseph Ogungo Saturday May 23, 2026

An undated image of a police vehicle at a crime scene Photo kenyans.co.ke

The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has asked the court to hold a police officer accused of fatally shooting a taxi driver in Garissa, citing fears that he could tamper with witnesses and derail the case.

In an application filed on Friday, May 22, the authority told the court that releasing the officer on bond would put the investigation at risk, arguing that he may also interfere with key evidence as investigators pursue the matter.

IPOA is now pressing for the suspect to remain in custody while inquiries into the deadly shooting are completed.

The latest filing came a day after the matter was adjourned, with the court granting the officer time to secure legal counsel before entering a plea.

On Thursday, May 21, the court indicated that the officer will face a manslaughter charge.

The case traces back to April 21, when the officer is alleged to have shot 22-year-old taxi driver Aden Mohamed before leaving the scene.

IPOA also said the suspect had stayed away from duty for more than 15 days before later reappearing.

According to the account before the court, Mohamed had been contacted by two friends at about 2 am on the night in question.

The two men were said to have been arrested and handcuffed at the Modika roadblock, after which they reportedly called Mohammed to intervene and help secure their release.

Witnesses told investigators that when Mohammed arrived, he and the officer got into an argument, during which the officer allegedly shot him in the head at close range.

Mohammed later died from the injuries, while the police officer fled the scene, according to the report.