Kenyans are once again dealing with the pain of police violence after a shocking incident during protests in Nairobi.
A hawker named Boniface Mwangi Kariuki was shot by two police officers, Masinde Baraza and Duncan Kiprono, both stationed at Kileleshwa Police Station.
This happened in broad daylight, in front of cameras and members of the public. The attack was captured on video, showing one officer aiming directly at the hawker’s head before firing at close range.
The footage quickly went viral, sparking national anger and calls for justice.
The incident happened near Imenti House during protests calling for justice over the death of blogger Albert Ojwang. Mwangi was not taking part in the protests. He was just doing his job selling face masks when the officers approached him.
Witnesses say one of the officers, believed to be Baraza, was first seen shooting towards protesters before returning with Kiprono. They then singled out Mwangi, beat him to the ground, and Baraza shot him using what police later claimed was an anti-riot shotgun loaded with rubber bullets.
Mwangi was badly injured, bleeding from his head, and was rushed to Bliss Medical Centre by protesters who witnessed the attack. He was later transferred to Kenyatta National Hospital where he underwent surgery for blunt trauma to his upper body.
The public reaction was instant. Human rights groups, including Amnesty International Kenya, strongly condemned the attack and demanded accountability.
Many Kenyans questioned why this kind of violence keeps happening, especially during protests. They asked why the police needed to use such force, particularly on someone who wasn’t even part of the crowd.
This case added fuel to ongoing discussions about the way police handle protests and the urgent need for reform.
In response to the public pressure, the National Police Service quickly confirmed the incident and said action would be taken.
Police spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga announced that the Inspector General, Douglas Kanja, had ordered the arrest of the officers involved. Baraza and Kiprono were arrested and are now being held at Capitol Hill Police Station.
However, the lawyer representing them, Felix Kiton, complained that they had not been informed of the charges and were being denied access to their clients. He insisted on due process and said their legal rights should be respected.
Mwangi sustained head injuries and was rushed to Bliss Medical Centre by protesters before being transferred to Kenyatta National Hospital, where he is undergoing treatment. Doctors confirmed he suffered blunt trauma to the upper part of his body, requiring immediate surgery. [Photo: Courtesy]
They want the Internal Affairs Unit to be more independent and effective in holding officers accountable. They also want to see full prosecution of the officers and support for the victim.
Mwangi’s family is now focused on his recovery. They say he was the only one providing for them, and they are calling for help and justice. The incident has brought new attention to police brutality in Kenya and increased demands for change.
Many people believe that unless officers like Baraza and Kiprono are punished properly, these violent acts will keep happening. The pressure is now on the National Police Service to show that justice can be served and that the rights of all Kenyans will be protected.
