Two police officers linked to the shooting of a mask vendor
will remain in police custody for 15 more days as investigations continue.
Klinzy Masinde Barasa and Duncan Kiprono will be detained at the Capitol Hill Police Station to allow the prosecution to complete its
investigations.
This follows an agreement between the prosecution and the
defence counsel, presented before the Milimani Law Courts.
The two officers, who are accused of shooting a 22-year-old
face mask vendor along Moi Avenue in Nairobi’s CBD on Wednesday, were formally
presented in court on Thursday.
The two are attached to Kileleshwa Police Station.
The victim, Boniface Kariuki — also known as Eli Joshua —
was selling surgical face masks when he was approached by police officers
dispersing crowds during protests.
Witnesses said Boniface was not participating in the
demonstrations.
He was going about
his regular work when officers stopped him and accused him of obstructing the
walkway.
According to widely circulated video footage, one officer
shoved Boniface, and the other fired a shot at close range as he tried to walk
away.
The bullet struck Boniface near the ear, causing severe head
injuries. He collapsed on the pavement, bleeding heavily, as bystanders
screamed and rushed to assist him.
He was taken to Kenyatta National Hospital, where he remains
in the Intensive Care Unit following emergency surgery. His condition is
described as critical but stable.
Boniface’s father, Jonah Kariuki, confirmed that his son was
still alive and urged the government to bring those responsible to justice.
The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has
indicated that possible charges against the officers include attempted murder
and unlawful use of a firearm.
Barasa and Kiprono will be formally charged once
investigations are complete.
The shooting sparked national outrage, with human rights
groups condemning the act and demanding full prosecution of the two officers.
Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja condemned the
incident and assured the public that the National Police Service will not
shield rogue officers.
The case will be mentioned for directions on July 3, 2025.
