Two police officers have been interdicted following a shooting incident that left a street vendor, Boniface Kariuki, critically injured during protests in Nairobi. The National Police Service (NPS) identified the officers involved as Police Constables Klinzy Barasa Masinde and Duncan Kiprono. Both officers were arrested and are currently being processed by the homicide team at the Directorate of Criminal Investigations headquarters, pending further action.
The incident occurred on June 17, 2025, and quickly drew public outrage after a video surfaced showing the two officers confronting Kariuki before one of them opened fire at close range. The footage captured the moment Kariuki was shot in the head, after which he collapsed to the ground as the officers walked away without rendering assistance.
In response to the public uproar, the NPS issued a statement condemning the actions of the officers and expressing regret over the incident. The service reaffirmed its commitment to justice and pledged to ensure that those responsible would face the full force of the law.
Kariuki was rushed to Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) after suffering a severe head injury and losing a significant amount of blood. Upon arrival, he was immediately evaluated by the emergency medical team and stabilized before undergoing further tests.
A CT scan revealed that a bullet had lodged in the left side of his brain. The hospital assembled a multidisciplinary team led by a consultant neurosurgeon to perform a delicate two-hour surgery to remove the bullet. The operation was successful, and Kariuki was transferred to the Intensive Care Unit, where he remains on mechanical ventilation under close observation. Although his condition is still critical, he is alive and receiving round-the-clock care.
The hospital also disclosed that a total of 16 individuals injured during the protests had been admitted, highlighting the broader toll of the unrest.
The shooting of Kariuki has reignited concerns about police conduct during public demonstrations. Rights groups and members of the public have called for systemic reforms and greater accountability within the police service. The swift interdiction and arrest of the officers involved mark a significant step, but there are growing demands for comprehensive measures to prevent such incidents from recurring.
As Kariuki fights for his life, the focus remains on ensuring justice is served, not only for him but also to reaffirm public confidence in law enforcement agencies. The case continues to generate national attention as investigations proceed and calls for police accountability intensify.
