Human rights activists and the management of a Kisumu entertainment venue have condemned a police operation that allegedly left a security guard wounded and caused property damage, calling for investigations into the conduct of officers involved.
The criticism follows a raid at Atela Beach Resort in Dunga, Kisumu, on Sunday evening, during which a female security guard, identified as Andrian Adhiambo Sire, was reportedly shot in the thigh.
Led by human rights defender and Kisumu City Residents Association chairman Audi Ogada, activists demanded accountability from officers attached to Kisumu Central Police Station, including the Officer Commanding Station (OCS), Benson Matheka.
“The law requires police officers to carry out their duties in full compliance with the rule of law and with respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms,” Ogada said.
He accused some officers of intimidation, arbitrary arrests and harassment of business operators.
The activists said they supported efforts to tackle crime and insecurity but urged authorities to ensure police operations remain lawful, transparent and respectful of citizens’ rights.
Meanwhile, Atela Beach Resort management said it had lodged a complaint with the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) and initiated legal action following the incident.
The resort’s communications and marketing manager Winnie Wenga Walcott,said about 12 police officers, some allegedly in civilian clothing, entered the premises at around 7:40 p.m. while it was crowded with customers.
“We are still trying to understand the reason for the raid. Some officers who were not in uniform entered the venue and began collecting shisha pots from customers’ tables,” Walcott said.
She said 10 shisha pots were seized and loaded into police vehicles. Walcott further alleged that officers searched customers’ bags, leading to complaints of missing valuables.
The operation caused panic among patrons, many of whom left without settling their bills, resulting in financial losses for the establishment, she said.
Walcott alleged that tensions escalated when customers questioned officers who were searching personal belongings.
“One officer cocked his firearm and another threw tear gas into the crowd,” she said. One of the security guard was shot in the thigh.
She also claimed that individuals attempting to assist the injured guard were assaulted by officers, allegations that could not be independently verified.
Despite the incident, Walcott praised customers who she said helped protect the premises during the chaos and assured the public that the resort had resumed normal operations.
“What shocked us most was the number of officers involved,” she said. At one point, there appeared to be more than 50 officers participating in the operation.
The Independent Policing Oversight Authority has recorded statements from witnesses, according to the resort management.
Police had not publicly commented on the allegations at the time of publication.
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