The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has taken over investigations into allegations that a police officer attached to Lumakanda Police Station in Lugari Sub-County, Kakamega County, defiled a minor. The case was reported at Lumakanda Police Station on September 27, 2026, before being brought to the attention of IPOA. The officer linked to the allegations has been arrested and presented before a court as investigations continue.
According to a police report, the events began at about 11pm when the officer allegedly contacted the minor’s mother and claimed that a multi-agency security operation had been planned in the area. The officer reportedly told the woman and her husband to leave their home for the night, offering to take them to a local entertainment establishment in his personal vehicle. The couple reportedly accepted the offer, but the woman later became suspicious and persuaded her husband to return home.
When the couple arrived home, they found their house locked and called their daughter, who opened the door. The report states that the parents found the police officer inside the house, improperly dressed and carrying his shoes. When confronted, the officer allegedly tried to persuade the couple to resolve the matter without involving other people, taking their mobile phones in the process. The officer is also alleged to have left Sh20,000 with the woman and asked her not to disclose what had happened.
The woman later raised the alarm and reported the matter at Lumakanda Police Station. IPOA in a statement on Tuesday, said its investigators have recorded statements from relevant people, processed and documented the scene, and obtained medical records as part of the inquiry. The team is conducting further investigations, including taking additional statements, extracting and analysing available CCTV footage, and carrying out an identification parade where necessary.
IPOA said it was giving the case particular attention because of the alleged victim’s vulnerability and the nature of the accusations. The authority said the inquiry forms part of its wider focus on allegations of abuse of office, sexual exploitation, and defilement involving police officers. IPOA chairperson Duncan Ojwang stated that the authority will conduct a thorough, impartial, and evidence-based investigation.
The investigation remains ongoing, and the allegations have not been tested in court. IPOA said it would take appropriate action within its legal mandate based on the evidence gathered. The authority deployed investigators to establish what happened, and the officer has been arrested and presented before a court as investigations continue.
IPOA's ongoing work includes recording additional statements, extracting and analysing available CCTV footage, and conducting an identification parade where necessary. The case has been prioritized due to the serious nature of the allegations and the vulnerability of the alleged victim. Key aspects of the investigation include gathering more evidence and ensuring a thorough inquiry.
Key points
- IPOA takes over investigation into Lumakanda police officer accused of defiling minor
- Officer allegedly used his position to gain trust of minor's parents before committing the offence
- Investigation is ongoing, with IPOA gathering more evidence and taking statements from relevant individuals
