NPA promises independence in prosecuting looters, violence instigators

The head of the National Prosecuting Authority, Shamila Batohi, has assured members of Parliament that the entity will be steadfast in its independence while prosecuting those responsible for the recent violence and looting in the country.

Appearing before Parliament’s Justice Committee this week to discuss how instigators of the violence and looters would be prosecuted, Batohi emphasised that the NPA would only follow fact and evidence.

The NPA says while it will consider restorative justice in cases where this can be justified, it will come down hard on the ones who planned and orchestrated the chaos.

“Where we are shows, the real importance of truly independent prosecuting authority. a lot being said about arrests and incitors etc… we want to make it clear, NPA is clear about mandate, takes instruction from no one, follow evidence and proceed accordingly,”  says Batohi.

She added says those found guilty will be prosecuted taking into account the nature of their crimes.

“Poverty may have driven the actions, not an excuse, we will consider dealing with low level perpetrators, will apply restorative justice where necessary. But in more serious categories of crime, will be relentless in ensuring coordination is clear, to bring to book those most responsible for what happened in our country. I want to emphasise again, we will only follow the evidence and nothing else and we will serve only the people of this country and no one else. ”

Over 1 400 arrests have been made in connection with the recent violence and lootings.

 Beds, fridges, fire extinguishers among looted items confiscated by police