Man seeks justice after police assault

 

Gabriel Chacha was in receiving medication in Home Bay Teaching and Referral Hospital.  The 36 year old man has been hospitalised after being assaulted by police over a disagreement with his female neighbour in Homa Bay County. [James Omoro, Standard]

A 36-year-old fisherman has been hospitalised after he was allegedly assaulted by police over a disagreement with his female neighbour at Ringiti Island, Homa Bay County.

Gabriel Chacha reportedly disagreed with the neighbour before he was arrested.

He was detained at Ringiti Police Post where he was seriously assaulted by police officers.

Chacha sustained serious injuries in the body, making him unconscious. 

The fisherman was rushed to Homa Bay Teaching and Referral Hospital for medication.

“The police officers arrested me and detained me in the cell. They caned me severely. One officer jumped and stepped on my stomach. I developed severe pain that made me unconscious,” Chacha said.

Chacha said he had protracted personal differences with the neighbour.

The fisherman accused the police officers that his neighbour bribed police to punish him severely.

"I pleaded with the officers to let the case be solved by beach officials but they refused," Chacha said.

He appealed to the government authorities to take legal action against the officers who assaulted him.

"I am appealing for justice. I did not deserve the injuries sustained," Chacha added.

The Homa Bay Teaching and Referral Hospital Chief Executive Officer Vincent Oduor said the fisherman’s health had been stabilized.

"The patient came with serious inflammation on the body, signifying serious injuries he sustained. His wounds now show signs of healing," Dr Oduor said.

The County Police Commander Lawrence Koilem said they had begun investigations into the matter. Koilem said anybody found culpable will not be spared.

“A group of officers have been assigned to investigate the incident and the truth will be known soon,” Koilem said.