The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) says investigations into deaths linked to the 2024 Anti-Finance Bill and Gen Z demonstrations are still ongoing, with only three cases having reached the courts two years after the protests.
According to the release by IPOA, there were 62 registered death cases arising from the 2024 demonstrations. As of June 2026, three cases are before the courts, while three others have been forwarded to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) for review and direction.
One case is undergoing internal legal review, four have been closed after investigations, and five were closed following directions from the ODPP. The remaining 46 cases are at different stages of investigation.
Complex Investigations Slow Progress
IPOA attributed the slow pace of prosecutions to the complexity of investigations involving multiple agencies.
The Authority said it relies on institutions such as the National Forensic Laboratory and the Government Chemist for forensic examinations and ballistic analyses. These processes can take time and often affect the completion of investigations.
Additionally, some cases face challenges related to insufficient evidence, making it difficult to meet the legal threshold required for prosecution.
IPOA emphasized that the completion of investigations does not automatically result in criminal charges. Cases must undergo prosecutorial review by the ODPP, which determines whether the available evidence is sufficient to proceed to court.
“The three cases before court are those in which the evidence and prosecutorial thresholds have been met,” the Authority said.
Protest Death Cases Continue to Rise
Beyond the 2024 demonstrations, IPOA has continued to receive complaints arising from subsequent protests.
The Authority registered 27 death cases linked to the June 2025 Gen Z Memorial demonstrations. Of these, one case is before court while 26 remain under active investigation.
A further 38 death cases were reported following the July 2025 Saba Saba demonstrations. Two cases were closed internally, while 36 are still under investigation.
Collectively, the three major public order events have generated 127 death cases, highlighting the growing burden facing investigators and accountability institutions.
IPOA says it is implementing several measures to accelerate justice for victims and their families.
The Authority has adopted a backlog reduction strategy, recruited additional investigators, and is fast-tracking ongoing investigations. It is also strengthening collaboration with key stakeholders to ensure IPOA matters receive priority attention.
