The involvement of the five Kenyan policemen in the tragic death of Pakistani journalist Arshad Sharif has been shrouded in controversy. Recent reports reveal that these officers have quietly resumed their official duties, raising concerns about accountability. Disturbingly, two of them have even been promoted to senior ranks within the Kenyan police force.What was initially believed to be a suspension and investigation turned out to be a mere façade.
Despite their involvement in the fatal shootout, these five police officers are enjoying full police benefits, seemingly escaping any real consequences for their actions. This situation has raised allegations of a cover-up by Kenyan authorities, as the investigation into the incident has significantly slowed down.
The Independent Policing and Oversight Authority (IPOA) of Kenya, responsible for investigating police conduct, has come under scrutiny for its lack of transparency. Shockingly, the findings of their investigation have not been made public for over nine months, leaving many questions unanswered.
The timeline of events leading to Arshad Sharif’s tragic death further highlights the unsettling nature of the situation.
He arrived in Nairobi on August 20 and was fatally shot on October 23. During his stay, he was hosted at the guest house of Waqar Ahmad, a Karachi-based businessman. Khurram Ahmad, Waqar Ahmad’s brother, was driving Arshad Sharif when the incident occurred.
The National Police Service (NPS) of Kenya has also faced accusations of impeding the investigation into Arshad Sharif’s killing due to the involvement of its own members. This has led to growing concerns about justice and accountability in the case.