Two Police Officers Arrested After Fatal Shooting of Hawker in Nairobi

The Kenyan National Police Service (NPS) faces intense public and institutional scrutiny following the shooting of a civilian during recent demonstrations in Nairobi's central business district. 

The incident, in which constables Klinzy Barasa Masinde and Duncan Kiprono allegedly shot Boniface Kariuki at close range during Tuesday's protests, has reignited long-standing concerns about excessive force by security forces during public unrest. Authorities have described the shooting as "unjustified," and both officers have been interdicted. The Directorate of Criminal Investigations' Homicide Unit has taken over the case, and the NPS states that further legal action is pending.

The incident has triggered widespread public condemnation. Civil society groups and human rights defenders are denouncing it as symptomatic of police impunity and the state's failure to protect citizens. Activist Jackson Kuria, known as Cop Shakur, voices widespread anguish among young Kenyans, questioning the normalisation of fatal violence in interactions with law enforcement. He urges accountability from institutions, claiming that they have remained passive or complicit in the violence.

The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) has issued a critical assessment of both the police and a militia group observed operating alongside officers. LSK President Faith Odhiambo cites video and photographic evidence purportedly showing collusion between these groups to suppress protesters and intimidate civilians. The LSK claims at least 17 injuries were sustained during the protests. She condemned vigilante-style operations, which she alleges are carefully orchestrated acts of violence and looting, conducted with the support, or tolerance, of uniformed officers. 

One account includes an attack on High Court advocate Ken Ochieng, allegedly by gang members transported by a police vehicle and flanked by armed riders. Archbishop Philip Anyolo of the Nairobi Catholic Archdiocese has added his voice to the condemnation, lamenting the erosion of public trust in law enforcement. Speaking at Holy Family Basilica, he called for an immediate end to the unchecked brutality, particularly the presence of armed gangs operating with impunity. Anyolo appealed for public restraint, especially from the youth, while demanding accountability from the state.

Government officials have responded to the allegations with denials. Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura dismisses claims of collaboration between police and criminal elements as baseless attempts to defame the government. NPS spokesperson Michael Muchiri reiterated this stance, asserting that investigations are underway to identify and prosecute those involved in the disturbances.