A Geo News investigation reveals that five Kenyan police officers responsible for the killing of Pakistani journalist Arshad Sharif have quietly returned to duty without facing any consequences, sparking allegations of a cover-up.
The incident occurred during a gunfight at an East African checkpoint in a remote area, resulting in Sharif’s death and his driver’s survival. Despite initial promises of a timely update, Kenya’s Independent Policing and Oversight Authority (IPOA), tasked with investigating police conduct, has not released findings for over nine months. The officers are reported to still receive full benefits and even promotions, with two elevated to higher positions.
The IPOA had initially submitted its investigation file to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP), but it was returned for additional information before prosecution could commence. This, along with the prolonged delay in disclosing findings, suggests a lack of commitment from Kenyan authorities to address the journalist’s murder. The government’s cessation of inquiry also raises concerns about its intentions. Notably, Kevin Kimuyu Mutuku, an officer accused of involvement in the incident, returned to duty after a brief hospital discharge. His claim of being shot by bullets from Sharif’s car was refuted by forensic examination.
Sharif had arrived in Kenya to avoid arrest in Pakistan, where he faced several charges, including sedition. Experts and insiders criticize the handling of the case. Kenyan intelligence sources anonymously shared that the National Police Service (NPS) may have slowed the investigation due to self-interest. The Kenyan Human Rights Commission’s Martin Mavenjina expressed concerns about the police’s lack of motivation to conclude the case and the absence of legislation demanding prompt responses from law enforcement.
He indicated that stronger political will and proper investigation could have yielded justice, but leadership changes in the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) and other factors seemed to hinder progress. Sharif’s family, represented by former Islamabad High Court judge Shaukat Siddiqui, noted a lack of cooperation from Kenyan authorities. Siddiqui suspected Kenyan police were aware of the plot behind the murder and suggested the Pakistani government raise the issue with the United Nations. The family’s lawyers initiated efforts to retrieve Sharif’s vehicle, which was at the center of the incident.
Despite strained relations between Pakistan and Kenya following the incident, Kenyan President Dr. William Samoei Ruto extended an invitation to Pakistan’s interim Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar. The foreign minister and other officials would accompany Kakar on the upcoming visit. Meanwhile, Khurram and Waqar, who were with Sharif during the incident, have denied involvement and have stayed in Kenya.
The entire case highlights the complex interplay between international relations, law enforcement conduct, and the pursuit of justice. While questions about the circumstances of Sharif’s death remain, it is evident that the matter is far from resolved, and the global community continues to watch as developments unfold.
- Misleading Video Alters Prime Minister Shehbaz’s Speech Targeting Political Rival, Not His Party - 21/04/2024
- ATC Grants Three-Day Remand for Suspects in Ichhra Bazaar Harassment Case - 19/03/2024
- Pakistan, India, and Bangladesh Lead World in Severe Smog Crisis, Exceeding WHO Guidelines - 19/03/2024
