IPOA Investigates Death of Boda Boda Rider in Kawangware Police Cell
The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) is investigating the death of 23-year-old boda boda rider Jack Leon Matoke, who was found dead after being detained at Kawangware Police Post in Nairobi County on 11 December.
IPOA confirmed that its investigators visited the scene, documented the area, and contacted Matoke’s family to keep them informed. The Authority also attended a post-mortem at the City Mortuary, where the results are expected to clarify the cause of death.
IPOA has said that the inquiry is being carried out independently, in accordance with its legal mandate. Initial police reports suggested that Matoke had died by suicide while alone in his cell, using his T-shirt.
However, the account was later revised, with officers claiming he had used a shoestring. Family members have disputed both versions, pointing out that Matoke was still wearing the clothes he had on at the time of his arrest, and that no item allegedly used in the suicide had been produced.
Relatives also noted that marks on his neck appeared more like tattoos than injuries consistent with hanging. IPOA has indicated that its findings will inform recommendations to agencies such as the Directorate of Criminal Investigations and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, if criminal liability is identified.
IPOA Chairperson Isaack Hassan stressed the importance of impartiality and accountability in the investigation to restore public confidence in policing.
Matoke leaves behind a young daughter, and his family has called for a thorough and transparent investigation.
His mother has expressed a desire for the truth about her son’s death to be uncovered.
