The National Police Service Internal Affairs Unit has launched investigations into the arrest of Citizen TV journalist Francis Odee, who was reportedly manhandled and briefly detained while covering protests against rising fuel prices in Nairobi.
In a statement issued on Thursday, October 22, 2026, the police service said the inquiry would establish the facts and circumstances surrounding Odee’s arrest and guide any further action in accordance with the law.
The journalist was reportedly arrested on October 20 while covering demonstrations along Kimathi Street before being taken to Central Police Station, where he was later released.
The incident sparked concern among human rights activists, who have demanded accountability over the treatment of journalists covering public protests.
The National Police Service confirmed that the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) had also opened investigations into the matter, pledging to provide the necessary support to facilitate a thorough and impartial inquiry
The announcement comes after a group of human rights defenders, led by Odhiambo Ojiro, issued a seven-day ultimatum to IPOA and the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), demanding action over alleged violations of journalists’ rights.
The activists condemned Odee’s reported assault and detention, saying the incident added to concerns over attacks on media practitioners whose cases they claim have remained unresolved despite being reported to authorities.
Addressing journalists in Nairobi, the group warned that failure to hold officers accountable for proven violations could undermine media freedom and erode Kenya’s democratic gains.
IPOA Chairperson Duncan Ojwang’ had earlier confirmed that the authority was investigating the incident, with the aim of establishing the circumstances under which Odee was allegedly manhandled and detained while carrying out his journalistic duties.
The National Police Service, meanwhile, reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining professional relations with the media, describing a free and responsible press as an important partner in promoting public confidence in policing and strengthening democracy.
The service appealed to the public and media practitioners to remain calm and allow the investigative process to proceed.
The probe is expected to establish the circumstances surrounding Odee’s arrest and determine whether the conduct of the officers involved warrants further action.
The allegations remain subject to investigations and no findings of wrongdoing have been announced.
