The Independent for Investigation Umbrella IMLU and Partners Grapples For Alarming Rise in Custodial Deaths: As a Call for Justice and Reform

The Independent for Investigation Umbrella IMLU and Partners Grapples For Alarming Rise in Custodial Deaths: As a Call for Justice and Reform

By Bruno Aero Family Daily Media Nairobi, Kenya  November 6, 2025 6.04 Pm

Photo Courtesy by Elijah Odanga

IMLU (K) AND ITS PARTNERS ROAS 

The Executive Director Of IMLU (K) Wangechi Grace in a Joint Meeting Speaking during a briefing In Nairobi has revealed in the report which has shed light on the alarming rate of deaths in police custody, highlighting systemic failures in Kenya's justice and accountability mechanisms. According to the Independent Medico-Legal Unit (IMLU),17 custodial deaths were documented between 2024 and 2025, with many cases pointing to physical assault neglect and lack of timely medical care.

The Disturbing Statistic

Prof. Djordje Alempijevic

 Medicine Forensic  Expart at The University Of Belgrade

UN-SPT MEMBER  With

Dr James Liv

Intanbul Protocal Programme Coodonator For International Rehabilitation Council For Torture Victims

While speaking through IMLU Reports says

17 custodial deaths were documented in 10 counties, including Nairobi, Nakuru, Siaya Mombasa and among others

- 80 autopsies facilitated by IMLU during protests

- 59 deaths documented through forensic documentation in 2025

A Pattern of Neglect and Abuse

Postmortem examinations revealed harrowing patterns of injury and neglect, including:

- Cardiorespiratory failure and cardiogenic shock due to multiple injuries

- Asphyxiation and hanging, with possible staging of suicide

- Severe head injuries with brain contusions and subdural hematomas

A Call for Reform

In response to these findings, IMLU, with support from the International Rehabilitation Council for Torture Victims (IRCT), has convened a three-day forensic training for pathologists and lawyers. The workshop aims to strengthen the capacity of Kenyan experts in forensic documentation, investigation, and reporting of torture and deaths in custody.

The Way Forward

IMLU and partners are advocating for the operationalization of the National Coroner Services Act (2017) to ensure independent investigations into deaths in custody. A functioning coroner system would provide timely information to families and hold perpetrators accountable.

Justice Delayed is Justice Denied

As Kenya grapples with the scourge of custodial deaths, it's imperative that the government takes concrete steps to address these systemic failures and ensure accountability. The lives of Kenyans depend on it [1].