NAIROBI, Kenya – Two police officers accused of shooting a 22-year-old face mask vendor in Nairobi’s Central Business District will remain in custody for 15 more days as investigations continue.
Klinzy Masinde Barasa and Duncan Kiprono, both attached to Kileleshwa Police Station, were presented before the Milimani Law Courts on Thursday, where the prosecution and defence agreed to detain them at Capitol Hill Police Station to allow investigators more time to conclude their case.
The officers are accused of shooting Boniface Kariuki— along Moi Avenue on Tuesday during protests sparked by the death of blogger Albert Ojwang while in police custody.
Kariuki, who was not part of the demonstrations, was selling surgical masks when he was reportedly confronted by officers dispersing the crowd.
Eyewitnesses say he was accused of obstructing the walkway, then assaulted before one officer opened fire at close range as he attempted to walk away.
Shocking video footage of the incident shows Kariuki being shoved, then shot in the head near the ear.
He collapsed to the ground, bleeding profusely, as onlookers screamed and rushed to help.
He was rushed to Kenyatta National Hospital, where he remains in the Intensive Care Unit after undergoing emergency surgery. His condition is critical but stable, according to his family.
Speaking to the press, Kariuki’s father, Jonah Kariuki, confirmed his son was still alive and called on the government to deliver justice.
“My son was just doing his job. He wasn’t part of the protest. I am asking the government to make sure those who did this to him are held accountable,” he said.
The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has indicated the two officers could face charges of attempted murder and unlawful use of a firearm once investigations are complete.
The shooting has reignited public anger and prompted renewed calls for police reform, with civil rights groups demanding the full prosecution of the officers involved.
Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja condemned the incident and reassured the public that rogue officers would not be shielded by the National Police Service.
“We will not tolerate impunity in the ranks. The law will take its course,” he said in a statement.
The case is scheduled to be mentioned on July 3, 2025, for further directions.
