The National Police Service (NPS) has broken silence following deadly protests in Mbeere North, Embu County, over the state of Ishiara Level 4 Hospital, where two people were killed.
In a statement on Wednesday, April 15, the Service has regretted the incident, sympathising with the families, friends and relatives of the persons who tragically lost their lives on Tuesday, April 14.
“Any loss of life is something that the Service takes great exception to, as one life lost is one too many,” NPS says.
Reports indicate that the Evurore Ward community, through their representatives, had given the police notice of a peaceful demonstration against Ishiara Level 4 Hospital.
Although the protests began well, the NPS says what was witnessed soon afterwards was a “shocking and unacceptable degeneration” into criminal acts and violence by people who were not peaceful protestors.
“Many businesses were vandalised, and several bystanders were injured in the ensuing mayhem.”
According to the Service, police officers swiftly intervened to restore law and order, only to be met with more violence from criminal elements carrying all manner of crude weapons, including stones and other dangerous projectiles. “It left no doubt that the initial intentions were hijacked by individuals who were never interested in peaceful protests, law or order.”
The NPS is assuring the public that full documentation and accountability process for the incident is currently underway.
NPS Spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga says that the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has been notified so that full investigations can commence without delay and in a transparent manner.
“The police shall give maximum cooperation to this independent body. We appeal to anyone with information that could assist with investigations to report at the nearest police station, to a law enforcement officer, or to share the same via our toll-free numbers: 999, 911, or anonymously via #Fichua KwaDCI on 0800 722 203 or WhatsApp 0709 570 000.”
The protests were sparked by growing public concerns over the conditions and service delivery offered at the hospital.
Embu Governor Cecily Mbarire says the county government had already kickstarted the process of addressing these issues.
According to Governor Mbarire, the County Department of Health had convened stakeholdermeetings on April 7 and 8 2026, to discuss on how to resolve the situation.
“I strongly condemn the use of excessive force, including live ammunition, against unarmed demonstrators. Such actions are disproportionate and unacceptable,” she said,
