Key facts
- Three mourners were killed by Kenyan police on October 16, 2025, during a national farewell for former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
- A BBC Africa Eye investigation found the victims were not part of the scuffles that led to the gunfire.
- The victims were located between 60 and 160 meters from the confrontation.
- Forensic analysis suggests an elite police unit responsible for presidential protection may have fired the fatal shots.
- Kenya's Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) is still investigating the incident.
- No one has been held accountable for the deaths.
A BBC Africa Eye investigation has found that three mourners killed by Kenyan police during a national farewell for former Prime Minister Raila Odinga were not involved in the scuffles that preceded the gunfire. The incident occurred on October 16, 2025, at Nairobi's Kasarani Stadium.
The investigation analyzed over 1,500 images and videos, along with autopsy reports, to determine the circumstances of the deaths. The victims, Evans Kiche, Vincent Ogutu, and Jidah Burka, were located between 60 and 160 meters away from the confrontation, with Kiche being shot in the head approximately 60 meters from the scuffle, while Ogutu and Burka were at least 160 meters away when shot in the chest and head, respectively.
Forensic analysis by the BBC suggests that an elite police unit, typically responsible for presidential protection, may have fired the fatal shots. These officers were described as wearing tactical clothing and military camouflage, with faces covered and carrying assault rifles.
Kenya's Interior Minister, Kipchumba Murkomen, defended the police, stating they were under immense pressure and had been deployed to the venue at the last minute. He described the police action as "restrained" and attributed the shooting to the "judgment of the police officer at the spur of the moment." He added that the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) is conducting investigations, and their findings will guide appropriate legal action.
Odinga, a prominent opposition leader, died at the age of 80 while receiving medical treatment in India. His death prompted widespread grief, with thousands gathering at the airport as his body was returned to Kenya. The original plan for his body to lie in state at parliament was changed to Kasarani Stadium due to the large crowds and security concerns, leaving officials with little time to secure the venue.