Police probe GSU attack on journalists
PHOTO | BILLY MUTAI NTV cameraman John Otanga receives treatment at Coptic hospital on January 20, 2013. Otanga and Nation photographer Dennis Okeyo were assaulted by GSU officers while covering the riots in Kibera.
Several General Service Unit officers have been questioned over the Sunday incident in Kibera slums where Nation Media Group journalists were assaulted.
“I ordered investigations and I know the officers who were deployed in that area at the time have recorded statements,” said Inspector General of Police David Kimaiyo.
Director of Public Prosecutions Keriako Tobiko also wrote to the police chief directing that the investigations be done within 14 days and findings submitted to him.
Mr Dennis Okeyo, a Nation photographer, and Mr John Otanga, an NTV cameraman, sustained injuries in the incident at Karanja area in Kibera.
Condemn police action
They were on assignment to cover riots which the GSU officers had been sent to quell.
Media Council of Kenya chief executive Haron Mwangi condemned the police action. “The council strongly condemns harassment and intimidation of journalists by security forces and supporters of some political parties,” he said.
The council further set up a portal, http://freedom.mediacouncil.or.ke/main, where incidents that infringe on the freedom of journalists can be reported.
The journalists reported the assault at Kilimani Police Station. Mr Okeyo said the officers had robbed him of Sh2,000 and a memory card.
Mr Otanga was hit with a club on the head while Mr Okeyo had injuries on his hands and leg. They were treated at the Coptic Hospital.
