Constable Klinzy Barasa Masinde remained largely unknown to most Kenyans until mid-June 2025, when a disturbing video emerged online, showing him allegedly shooting an unarmed street vendor during nationwide protests against the finance bill. The incident, which occurred during a heated moment of civil unrest, quickly spiraled into national outrage.
The victim, Boniface Kariuki, succumbed to his injuries at a hospital on 30th June, sparking widespread calls for accountability. As the video continued to circulate, public curiosity shifted towards the man behind the uniform—who exactly is Constable Barasa?
Identified by his service number 119413, Barasa had been a member of the National Police Service for a significant period, long enough to hold the rank of Constable. Although little is publicly known about his early life, education, or hometown, what stands out is his former online presence—a vibrant, controversial window into his personality prior to the fatal incident.
Barasa had carved out a noticeable presence on social media, especially on TikTok and Instagram. He frequently shared videos of himself in full uniform, often participating in trending challenges, humorous skits, and lip-syncs. His content mainly revolved around themes of dating and relationships, appealing to a younger, digitally savvy audience. His style was bold and unapologetic, branding himself as a relatable and confident officer with Gen Z flair.
One particular post, now deleted, chillingly declared, “I can’t fix stupid—but I can cuff it.” His Instagram following exceeded 1,000, and he posted regularly on TikTok, gradually cultivating an influencer-like persona. However, this digital footprint would soon take on a much darker tone.
Following the viral shooting, all his social media accounts were deactivated in the face of mounting public backlash. Videos that were once intended for humor were now being viewed through a very different lens. In one especially controversial clip, he was seen smoking, with a caption suggesting it wasn’t a cigarette—raising even more questions about his behavior while in uniform.
With the public calling for justice, Barasa was arrested and suspended from the police service. He is now facing a murder charge in connection to Kariuki’s death. As the legal process unfolds, attention has also turned to his defense team—particularly his lawyer, whose repeated grammatical errors during a press briefing became an unexpected distraction and source of ridicule.
Barasa’s case has come to symbolize a broader issue in Kenya’s law enforcement: a younger generation of officers who are increasingly active on social media, blending personal expression with public duty. The tragedy has reignited conversations around police accountability, the power of digital platforms to shape narratives, and the fine line between public image and professional responsibility.
This case continues to resonate deeply, not just because of the tragic loss of life, but because it captures a unique moment in the evolution of law, justice, and media in Kenya. Barasa is scheduled to appear in court for plea taking on 28th July 2025, after undergoing a mandatory mental assessment. All eyes remain fixed on the outcome, as the nation grapples with what justice should look like in an era where virality often precedes verdicts.
