NAIROBI, Kenya — Police have clarified that a dramatic altercation captured on video in Nairobi’s central business district was a domestic dispute between two individuals in a relationship, dismissing widespread social media claims that the fight was sparked by a matatu fare disagreement.
The incident, which quickly went viral online, showed a woman hurling a stone at a matatu and shattering its windscreen before a man believed to be associated with the vehicle rushed toward her and pushed her to the ground during a heated confrontation.
In the footage, the man is also seen attempting to snatch the woman’s handbag, breaking the strap as she struggles to hold on.
A school-going child believed to be their daughter was present during the altercation and briefly tried to intervene before bystanders restrained her.
The confrontation initially triggered intense speculation online, with many users claiming the dispute began after the woman allegedly paid her fare with a Sh1,000 note and was denied the correct balance.
However, police investigations have since dismissed that account.
According to officers from the Kenya Police Service, the incident stemmed from a personal disagreement between the two individuals rather than a public transport fare dispute.
Providing details of the investigation, Filmon Nyakombo of Central Police Station said the pair have been in a relationship and share a child together.
“In our investigation, I found out that the driver and the lady have been in a relationship. They have a child together. The altercation arose from differences over the issues of taking this child to school,” Nyakombo said.
He added that the disagreement escalated into a physical confrontation in the street, attracting attention from bystanders and prompting the viral recording.
Police confirmed that both parties have since recorded statements with investigators.
The woman’s statement was taken at Kamukunji Police Station, while the man recorded his statement at Central Police Station, a process authorities say is standard when both individuals are involved in a dispute.
Officials said the case is being handled with caution because a minor was present during the altercation.
Authorities also urged the public to refrain from spreading unverified claims online, warning that viral videos can often circulate without context.
The incident has renewed debate over the speed at which misinformation spreads on social media when dramatic footage emerges without verified details.
Police said investigations into the circumstances surrounding the confrontation are ongoing, and further updates will be issued once inquiries are complete.
