34-year-old fisherman Gabriel Chacha in hospital./SCREENGRAB
A 34-year-old fisherman from Ringiti Island in Homa Bay County is recovering from injuries he claims were inflicted by police officers during an alleged assault linked to a personal dispute.
Gabriel Mwita Chacha says he was arrested after a disagreement with a neighbour who allegedly bribed officers to have him detained.
Chacha claims one officer stepped on his stomach during the arrest, causing serious pain and inflammation.
Homa Bay County Police Commander Lawrence Koilem confirmed investigations are underway and promised accountability.
“No one found culpable will be spared," Koilem said.
The incident comes amid growing concerns over police conduct in Kenya, particularly in remote areas where accountability mechanisms are limited and oversight remains a challenge.
Chacha was first treated at Sindo Sub-County Hospital before being transferred to Homa Bay County Referral Hospital.
According to hospital CEO Dr. Vincent Oduor, the patient is stable, though he sustained significant inflammation.
The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (Ipoa) and other rights groups have consistently raised alarm over excessive use of force by police, especially in low-income and marginalized communities.
This latest incident adds to a growing list of complaints involving officers accused of abuse, bribery, and mishandling minor disputes.
