The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has launched investigations into the death of Simon Warui, who died while in police custody at Central Police Station in Mvita Sub-county, Mombasa.
According to IPOA, a post-mortem report showed that Warui succumbed to cardiorespiratory collapse resulting from a fractured and dislocated neck, injuries consistent with a fall from height.
The oversight body has already begun collecting evidence, interviewing witnesses, and reviewing police procedures linked to the incident.
In a statement issued on September 23, 2025, IPOA emphasized that the safety and rights of individuals in police custody remain paramount and assured a thorough probe into the matter.
"IPOA emphasizes that safety and rights of individuals placed in police custody are paramount and will work diligently to ensure justice is served," the statement read in part.
The authority also conveyed condolences to Warui’s family and appealed for calm as investigations continue.
"IPOA appeals for calmness as there are ongoing investigations," the statement read.
This follows demands from human rights groups, including the Law Society of Kenya, for a thorough and timely investigation into Warui’s death.
In a statement released on Monday, LSK President Faith Odhiambo confirmed that the society had appointed an advocate to act on behalf of Warui’s family.
The lawyer will monitor the investigations, ensuring the circumstances surrounding the death are uncovered and all those responsible are held accountable.
"The Law Society of Kenya is closely following up on the case of Simon Warui, who died while in police custody at Central Police Station, Mombasa. We have appointed an Advocate to act on behalf of the family in monitoring the investigations and ensuring that the full truth and circumstances leading to Warui’s death are uncovered, and the persons involved are held to account,'' the statement by Odhiambo read in part.
The case has reignited debate about accountability within police stations, despite repeated assurances from the government. Human rights groups continue to warn that deaths in custody remain a serious and unresolved concern in Kenya.
Warui’s body was discovered in a cell at Mombasa Central Police Station just days after he was reported missing from Nairobi’s Umoja I Estate.
