The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has begun an investigation into the alleged withdrawal of security details assigned to Hon. Justice Mugambi. The High Court’s Judge two securities were recalled to attend VIP security training according to the National Police Service.
The IPOA, which operates independently as a police watchdog, stated in a statement released on September 18, 2024, that it has instituted an investigation that could lead to persecution should Masengeli be found culpable.
“In view of the foregoing, the Independent Policing Oversight Authority, on its own motion, has instituted investigation into the alleged withdrawal pursuant to Section 6 of the Independent Policing Oversight Authority Act, Cap 86 Laws of Kenya. The investigations will inform recommendations, including but not limited to persecution, where culpability is established,” read the statement.
The Chief Justice of Kenya, Martha Koome, stated that Hon. Mugambi’s security was disarmed and later withdrawn over the weekend in an attempt to intimidate the judged. This occurred after Masengeli was sentenced to six months in prison by the said judge.
Justice Lawrence Mugambi sentenced the acting IG, Gilbert Masengeli, into 6 months imprisonment for contempt of court after the latter snubbed at least seven summonses to appear before the court.
Masengeli was, however, given a seven-day redeemable period to appear before the judge if he never wanted to serve the sentence. The period, which is set to last on Thursday midnight, might widen Masengeli’s reputation as one who should enforce the rule of law should he fail to honor the breakthrough window.
In a huge blow to the Acting IG, the appellant court rejected his appeal to have the sentenccing temporarily halted pending the appeal. Masengeli’s appeal is set for hearing next week. The Law Society of Kenya is, however, in a rush to file an application in response to Masengeli’s application.
Masengeli is required to answer for the case allegedly linking the police to the abduction of three individuals on August 19, 2024. The three were abducted in Mlolongo and Kitengela over the suspicion of their involvement in the Gen Z-led anti-government protests.
He has maintained that he was not in a position to appear before the court due to his devotion to security assessment in the North Eastern and Coastal regions. However, he hasn’t stated anything after the Court of Appeal rejected his appeal.
