NAIROBI, Kenya- Human rights activists are demanding an independent investigation after a 27-year-old woman was fatally shot during a police operation in Busia County, with questions emerging over the circumstances surrounding her death.
According to Vocal Africa Chief Executive Hussein Khalid, the victim, identified as Laura Wesonga, was shot and killed on Monday, June 29, in Marachi Estate, Burumba Ward, Busia County.
Khalid said Wesonga, a student at the Kenya Medical Training College (KMTC), was caught in what he described as police crossfire after officers were deployed to the area to respond to unrest.
“Laura Wesonga, 27 years old, was shot and killed by police yesterday, Monday 29th June, in Marachi estate of Burumba ward, Busia County. She tragically lost her life after being caught in an alleged police crossfire when officers were deployed to the Marachi estate to respond to unrest in the area,” Khalid said in a statement shared on social media.
The activist called for accountability, saying the incident adds to growing concerns over the use of firearms during police operations.
Local leaders and residents also mourned Wesonga’s death, describing it as a tragic loss and calling for a thorough investigation to establish exactly what happened and who should be held responsible.
As of Wednesday, police had not publicly issued a detailed statement explaining the circumstances under which the fatal shooting occurred or whether any officers had been removed from active duty pending investigations.