Mwiki, Nairobi, is engulfed in sorrow and anger after the fatal shooting of 19-year-old Joshua Steven, a promising young man with aspirations of joining university. Joshua was killed on Friday during protests demanding justice for the heinous rape and murder of 18-year-old Abigael Wina Wanjiku.
CHAOS TURNED TRAGEDY
The protests began peacefully as residents voiced their outrage over Abigael’s brutal killing in her home on Thursday night. However, the situation spiraled into chaos as police attempted to disperse the crowds with tear gas and, eventually, live ammunition.
Joshua, an innocent bystander, sought refuge in a small gas shop with a friend. When tear gas was hurled into the shop, the two fled, unknowingly running into danger. Eyewitnesses reported that a police officer raised his pistol and fired, fatally striking Joshua in the head.
FAMILY AND COMMUNITY DEVASTATED
At Joshua’s family home, heartbreak is palpable. His mother, Ann Wambui, recounted the tragic events:
“They threw tear gas where he was hiding. He ran out, but unfortunately, he ran toward the police and was shot.”
The young man was rushed to a hospital, but he succumbed to his injuries on the way.
“Joshua was our third-born, a bright boy with big dreams. Now, he’s gone,” Wambui added tearfully.
OUTRAGE AND CALLS FOR JUSTICE
The killing has sparked renewed protests in Mwiki, with angry residents lighting bonfires, blocking roads, and vowing to fight for justice.
“We have video evidence of the police officer who shot him. We won’t stop until justice is served,” said John Mwangi, a resident.
The amateur footage shows an officer firing the fatal shot before fleeing on a motorcycle. Sources indicate that investigators are focusing on a specific officer whose appearance matches the one captured in the video.
POLICE BRUTALITY UNDER SCRUTINY
This incident follows a disturbing trend of police brutality in Kenya. Just days prior, a street vendor was shot by police during protests in Nairobi. These cases have heightened public outcry over excessive use of force by law enforcement.
Despite the growing demands for accountability, police authorities have yet to issue an official statement on Joshua’s death. However, sources from Kasarani Police Station confirmed that investigations are ongoing.
A NATION DEMANDS CHANGE
The death of Joshua Steven underscores the urgency of addressing police brutality in Kenya. His community, united in grief and anger, continues to seek justice—not just for Joshua, but for all victims of state violence.
