The National Police Service (NPS) has taken swift action by suspending two police officers implicated in the shooting of an unarmed civilian, hawker Boniface Kariuki, during a chaotic incident on Moi Avenue in Nairobi’s Central Business District.
Officers Identified and Interdicted
The officers, identified as Police Constables Klinzy Barasa Masinde and Duncan Kiprono, were caught in a viral video that showed one officer manhandling Kariuki before the other fired at him at close range. The mask vendor was left critically injured in broad daylight.
In a statement released by NPS spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga, the service confirmed:
“The two officers have now been interdicted and are currently being processed by the Homicide Team, DCI Headquarters, pending further action.”
Victim Recovering After Surgery
Boniface Kariuki, who was rushed to Kenyatta National Hospital, is reported to be in stable condition after undergoing successful surgery. The NPS expressed regret over the incident and reassured the public of their commitment to justice.
“The National Police Service deeply regrets this unjustified act and commiserates with the victim and his family, while reaffirming its full commitment to ensuring justice is served,” the statement read.
Public Outrage Sparks Action
The shooting has ignited widespread condemnation from the public, with social media flooded with demands for accountability. Many citizens have called for thorough investigations and reforms within the police force to curb excessive use of force.
The protests, initially peaceful, were part of a larger demonstration demanding the resignation of Deputy Inspector General Eliud Lagat. However, the protests turned chaotic after being infiltrated by unruly elements.
Caught on Camera: A Shocking Scene
One of the videos that sparked the uproar showed the officers approaching Kariuki, who was unarmed and vending face masks on the busy street. Moments later, one officer restrained him while the other fired a shot, leaving the hawker bleeding on the pavement.
The footage has fueled calls for better training and accountability mechanisms for law enforcement officers in Kenya.
A Commitment to Justice
The NPS has assured Kenyans that the officers will face the full force of the law, emphasizing that such acts of brutality will not be tolerated. Investigations by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) are ongoing, and further updates are expected as the case unfolds.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the need for police reforms and the importance of upholding human rights, especially during public interactions and protests.
