A 17-year-old boy from Narok County is fighting for his life at the Narok County Referral Hospital after allegedly being assaulted by a police officer while in custody at the Naroosura Police Station.
According to the family, the teenager, whose identity has been withheld because he is a minor, sustained serious injuries after what is being described as a brutal beating while in police detention. His mother, Grace Takona, is now demanding justice, accusing officers at the station of using excessive force against her son.
The boy was reportedly arrested in August on suspicion of stealing tractor spare parts in the Naroosura area. He remained in custody for several weeks, during which his mother claims he was subjected to inhumane treatment. This week, he was brought before court to face fresh charges of breaking into a shop and stealing KSh 34,000.
Sources indicate that after the court appearance, police officers declined to return the teenager to the station’s cells due to the extent of his injuries. He was instead rushed to the Narok County Referral Hospital, where he is currently receiving medical attention.
Grace Takona expressed deep anguish over her son’s condition, alleging that he was tortured by police officers who should have been protecting him. “My son was healthy when he was arrested. Now, he can barely speak or move. I want justice for him and for those responsible to be held accountable,” she said.
The incident has sparked outrage among local residents and human rights advocates, who are calling for a thorough investigation and accountability for any officers found culpable. Community members in Naroosura have condemned the alleged assault, describing it as a blatant abuse of power and a violation of the boy’s constitutional rights.
The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has since confirmed that it has launched an investigation into the matter. In a brief statement, IPOA said its investigators have already visited the station and hospital to gather preliminary evidence. “We have commenced investigations into the alleged assault of a minor in police custody in Narok County. Appropriate action will be taken upon completion of the inquiry,” the authority stated.
This case adds to growing concerns over police brutality and human rights violations in Kenya, particularly involving minors and vulnerable individuals. Civil society groups have consistently urged law enforcement agencies to adhere to the rule of law and ensure the protection of detainees.
The National Police Service (NPS) has yet to issue an official statement regarding the incident. However, IPOA’s involvement provides hope for the family that justice may be served.
Meanwhile, the boy remains hospitalized as his family awaits the outcome of the investigations. For Grace Takona, the fight for justice has only just begun a mother’s plea that the system she trusted to uphold the law does not silence her son’s suffering.
