IPOA Identifies Officer Linked to Rex Masai Shooting
In a dramatic twist to the case of Rex Masai’s fatal shooting, the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has named Police Constable Isaiah Murangiri Ndumba as the officer at the scene during anti-finance bill protests in Nairobi on June 20, 2024.
Despite denying involvement, Ndumba has been linked by photographic, video, and phone data evidence presented in court.
Officer Denies Involvement Despite Matching Evidence
Appearing before a Nairobi court on July 16, 2025, the officer denied being present at the protest, claiming he was off-duty and caring for his sick child.
“I’m not the one,” he told the court, dismissing images that appear to show him holding a tear gas launcher near where Rex Masai was fatally shot.
However, investigators noted a matching birthmark on the officer and phone records placing him near the crime scene, undermining his alibi.
Evidence Presented by IPOA Investigators
Paul Njihia, a forensic expert from IPOA, told the court that Ndumba was positively identified from video footage and photographs during the protest.
Furthermore, IPOA revealed that the weapon he carried was listed in the police arms register, though the original log is yet to be submitted to the court. The authority has requested that the original arms movement book be handed in for verification.
Postmortem Reveals Use of Live Bullet
The investigation confirmed that Rex Masai died from a live bullet wound, not from a tear gas canister as earlier speculated. IPOA is seeking full accountability, noting this use of excessive and unjustified force.
Additional Officers Summoned
In connection to the shooting, IPOA also named three other officers:
- Corporal Martin Githinji
- Constable Simon Waweru
- Constable Geoffrey Mbae
They are expected to appear for questioning and assist in the ongoing inquest into the incident.
Court Orders and Next Steps
The court has ordered full cooperation from the National Police Service and the appearance of the three officers. Magistrate Geoffrey Onsarigo is presiding over the inquest, which resumes on Wednesday, July 17, 2025 at 2:00 PM.
Public Outcry and Demand for Justice
The fatal shooting of Rex Masai, a young protester, sparked national outrage and increased scrutiny of police conduct during demonstrations. Many Kenyans continue to demand transparency, justice, and police
