Nick Mararo, the founder of Base Yetu, has for years spoken about the need to protect youth spaces and treat young people with dignity, and the events in Nandi Hills clearly show why his work matters.
On the night of January 10, 2026, police officers entered a pool hall in Nandi Hills where young men were calmly playing billiards. Without any evidence of wrongdoing, the officers ordered the youths to lie on the floor and then beat them using batons and kicks, even though the youths fully obeyed.
No one was arrested, and no crime was identified, making the incident a clear case of abuse of power rather than law enforcement.
The video that surfaced from the pool hall shows young people being punished for simply spending their time in a legal and common social space. Pool halls, often known as pool bases, are found across Kenya and are widely used by youths as places to relax, socialize, and stay out of trouble.
In this case, the young men were indoors, minding their own business, and not causing any disturbance to the public. The violence used against them has raised serious questions about how police officers understand their role in society and how they treat ordinary citizens.
Pool bases play an important role in many communities. They are affordable spaces where young people can gather after work or school. Instead of loitering on the streets, many youths choose to spend time playing pool, talking with friends, and building social connections.
These interactions help reduce loneliness and stress and create a sense of belonging. When such spaces are attacked, it sends a message that young people are not allowed to exist peacefully in public, which only increases frustration and mistrust.
Beyond social value, pool halls support local economies. Many are small businesses run by local owners who rely on daily customers to pay rent and support their families. They employ attendants, cleaners, and suppliers. When police raid or harass these places without cause, business slows down or closes completely. This hurts not only the owners but also the workers and the surrounding shops that benefit from customer traffic.
Organizations like Base Yetu, led by Nick Mararo, focus on empowering youth through safe spaces, sports, and positive engagement. Their work is built on the idea that young people need opportunities, not punishment.
Pool and similar games are seen as tools that help youths stay focused, build discipline, and avoid harmful activities. Incidents like the one in Nandi Hills undo this work by spreading fear and discouraging young people from gathering in positive environments.
Similar reports have emerged in other parts of the country, where police target entertainment spots without clear reasons. Leaders and human rights groups have condemned such actions, saying that playing pool is not a crime. When officers use violence where dialogue is enough, trust between the police and the public is damaged. This makes policing harder and communities less cooperative.
