Dancehall artist Konshens has expressed outrage over a disturbing video that captured a police officer allegedly shooting a young hawker during the recent Albert Ojwang protests in Nairobi’s CBD. The clip, which shows the victim, Boniface Kariuki, being harassed and later left motionless on the ground, has gone viral across social media platforms and stirred intense public anger.
The video, filmed outside Imenti House, captured the moment two police officers approached Kariuki, a street vendor known for selling face masks. Without visible provocation or resistance from Kariuki, one of the officers allegedly opened fire at close range. The shocking footage shows the young man collapsing to the ground while bystanders watched in horror.
Among those who reacted was Konshens, whose message resonated deeply with Kenyans. Posting the video on his social media account, the dancehall star kept his message brief but powerful, writing, “Unarmed. Non-threatening,” followed by an angry emoji. His words summed up what many people felt — rage at the senseless violence and disbelief at the state of policing.
Kenyans and fans across the world flooded Konshens’ comment section, thanking him for highlighting the incident on a global scale. Some expressed frustration over the deteriorating state of law enforcement in Kenya, accusing the government of allowing brutality to thrive unchecked. Others simply showed gratitude, applauding the Jamaican artist for standing in solidarity with Kenyan youths.
Voices in the comments described the act as unjustified and brutal, with some stating that the government had turned against its own people. Emotional messages poured in, particularly regarding the image of another man in the video — a Kenyan citizen seen putting his hands together in grief as Kariuki lay on the ground. It symbolized a collective national pain, a sense of helplessness that resonated far beyond the screen.
Konshens, known for his strong connection to Kenya and his past visits to the country, has built a loyal following. Many users praised him for consistently showing support whenever Kenyans face injustice, pledging that his loyalty will not be forgotten when the country eventually finds its peace.
Kariuki, whose shooting initially sparked rumours of his death, was later confirmed to be alive after undergoing an emergency operation at Kenyatta National Hospital. His father recounted the moment he saw the viral video, only to recognize his son as the victim — a moment of horror no parent should ever have to endure.
Authorities have since confirmed that the police officer involved in the shooting has been arrested. The Inspector General of Police ordered the arrest following public outcry and mounting pressure from human rights activists. The officer remains in custody, pending a full investigation and legal action.
The incident has reignited nationwide calls for police reforms and accountability. As Kenyans continue to demand justice for Boniface Kariuki and others who have suffered similar fates, voices like Konshens’ help bring global attention to a local crisis that many believe has gone on for far too long.
