The family of Boniface Kariuki, a hawker critically injured by a police officer during recent protests in Nairobi, faces mounting financial and emotional strain. Kariuki’s father, Jonah Kariuki Nyambura, has disclosed that scammers conned him out of Ksh. 200,000 from funds meant to settle his son’s escalating medical bills.
SCAMMER STRIKES AMID CRISIS
Speaking to the press at Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH), Jonah recounted how a con artist duped him with a promise to assist in clearing the hospital charges. The scammer requested Ksh. 20,000 for a purported registration process, but instead accessed his bank account and stole a total of Ksh. 200,500.
“Kuna mtu alikuwa ameniambia nimpee Ksh. 20,000 atanisaidia kwa bill, lakini mwenye alituma akatuma Ksh. 200,500. Nimechukua OB,” Jonah revealed, confirming he had reported the incident to the authorities.
SKYROCKETING HOSPITAL COSTS
The family disclosed that Boniface’s hospital bill has already surpassed Ksh. 1 million and continues to climb daily. Despite undergoing two surgeries to remove a bullet from his skull, Boniface remains in critical condition at KNH’s Intensive Care Unit (ICU).
Family spokesperson Emily Wanjiru shared a somber update on his health:
“The left side of his body is completely damaged, and his brain capacity is at 2/15. While there was a slight improvement yesterday, he still can’t talk, and we don’t know what his life will look like moving forward. He’s fighting for his life.”
CALL FOR JUSTICE AND ACCOUNTABILITY
The grieving family expressed frustration with the lack of contact from investigative authorities such as the Homicide Unit and the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA).
“No one has reached out to the family,” Wanjiru lamented. “That’s why we’ve decided to hire a lawyer to represent us in court and push for justice.”
The family is calling for swift judicial action to ensure the officers involved in the shooting are held accountable.
COMMUNITY SUPPORT AND FUTURE UNCERTAINTY
As Boniface’s condition remains dire, the family is appealing to well-wishers for financial and emotional support. The funds are critical for covering his growing medical expenses and ongoing care needs.
“We are deeply grateful for any assistance during this difficult time,” Jonah added, his voice heavy with emotion.
A GRIM REMINDER
Boniface’s case has become a stark reminder of the collateral damage caused by excessive force during protests. It underscores the need for systemic accountability and compassion for victims caught in the crossfire.
