IPOA: Investigations Into Shooting of Grade Six Boy in Mombasa on

By Mandere Onyinkwa

The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has issued an update on investigations into the fatal shooting of a 14-year-old Grade Six pupil in Mombasa.

The incident occurred on New Year’s Eve and sparked public concern.

In a press statement released on Tuesday, IPOA confirmed it is probing the death of Dennis Ringa Swaleh, who was shot at Utange–Swale Nguru Shopping Centre in Kisauni Sub-county.

The Authority said the investigation, which was launched on January 2, 2026, has reached an advanced stage.

According to IPOA, several key witnesses — including police officers and members of the public — have already been interviewed, and their statements recorded.

Investigators have also secured and preserved evidence from the scene, alongside relevant police documents linked to the incident.

In a critical step, IPOA investigators attended the postmortem examination conducted on Monday, January 5, 2026, as part of efforts to establish the circumstances and cause of the boy’s death.

“Further investigations are ongoing,” the Authority said, noting that additional witnesses are expected to be interviewed.

Some of the evidence already collected will also be submitted for ballistic examination, a move likely to shed more light on the weapon used and the sequence of events leading to the fatal shooting.

The killing of the pupil has drawn sympathy and anger in equal measure, with many Kenyans calling for accountability and justice.

In its statement, IPOA conveyed condolences to the family and friends of Dennis, acknowledging the pain of losing a child under such circumstances.

“The Authority condoles with the family and friends of the deceased and prays that they find solace at this difficult time,” the statement read.

Once investigations are concluded, IPOA said it will forward the investigation file to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), together with recommendations on the culpability of the officers involved, if any.

Reaffirming its mandate, IPOA emphasized its commitment to conducting fair, impartial and independent investigations, particularly in cases involving deaths resulting from police action.

The statement was signed by IPOA Chairperson Ahmed Issack Hassan.