Nairobi, Kenya – The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has opened an investigation into the fatal shooting of Sheryl Adhiambo, 21, allegedly killed by police officers during a pursuit of robbery suspects in the Huruma area of Nairobi County on February 7, 2026.
IPOA Vice Chairperson confirmed that a Rapid Response Team has been deployed to gather evidence, interview witnesses, and analyze exhibits to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Incident Background
According to the National Police Service (NPS), the chain of events began when a victim reported at Huruma Police Station that he had been attacked by five young men known to him, robbed of a silver chain and Ksh.1,800, and threatened with death.
Police officers responding to the report arrested two suspects, with further investigations leading to the arrest of two more later in the evening.
It was during the second arrest that one suspect allegedly raised an alarm, inciting nearby youths to pelt officers with stones and other projectiles. Officers reportedly fired warning shots into the air to disperse the crowd, during which Adhiambo was fatally shot.
Community Response
The incident has sparked unrest in Huruma, with residents expressing anger and grief over Adhiambo’s death. The NPS has urged residents to allow due process to take its course and to desist from further acts of lawlessness in order to restore calm.
IPOA’s Role
IPOA’s investigation will focus on whether police conduct adhered to the law and whether excessive force was used. The authority has pledged transparency and accountability in handling the case, which has already drawn significant public attention.
Conclusion
The fatal shooting of Sheryl Adhiambo underscores ongoing tensions between law enforcement and communities in Nairobi. As IPOA investigates, the case will serve as a critical test of police accountability and public trust in oversight institutions.
