Take responsibility and support Boniface Kariuki's treatment, family tells state

George Irungu, Boniface Kariuki's grandfather, addressing journalists during a visit by Central Police Commander Samuel Ndanyi on June 23, 2025./ALICE WAITHERA

The family of vendor Boniface Kariuki, who was shot by a police officer during protests on Tuesday, now wants the government to support his treatment.

Kariuki’s grandfather, George Irungu, said the 22-year-old youth who is admitted at Kenyatta National Hospital is in a serious condition and that the government should ensure he accesses the right treatment until he gets well.

Irungu said this when the central regional police commander, Samuel Ndanyi, led a contingent of security officers on a visit to Kariuki’s home in Karugia village in Kangema subcounty, Murang’a County.

The grandfather said Kariuki has been one of the humble family’s breadwinners and that they have no other source of financial support.

“We keep getting reports of his unstable condition. We want the state to take responsibility because this situation was caused by its workers,” Irungu added.

He said while the officers who shot him were dispensing their duties, Kariuki was also in the course of eking a living that he used to support his family.

“We want the government to work with us until the young man gets better. Our hope is that the government will not abandon us because we have no ability to give him the treatment and support that he requires,” he said, adding that the family is praying for his quick recovery.

Central Police Commander Samuel Ndanyi addressing relatives and neighbors of Boniface Kariuki's family at Karugia village in Kangema on June 23, 2025./ ALICE WAITHERA

“We’re happy you have visited, but we hope you won’t stop there. Hold our hands. Walk with us until our son is healed,” he told the regional police commander.

Area MCA Moses Muchiri expressed concerns that Kariuki’s medical bills have soared to over Sh1 million, leaving the family helpless.

He urged the government to step in and ensure the family is provided with everything it requires to tend to him.

“I want to also call out to leaders and well-wishers, anybody who can support this family, to come and offer their support. It’s highly needed,” he said.

On his part, Ndanyi said the visit was part of efforts by the National Police Service (NPS) to integrate with the community and enhance Kenyans’ trust in the service.

Ndanyi said the reforms being implemented in the NPS have seen police officers living with members of the community, which he said enhances the flow of information and bolsters security.

Any officer breaching the integrity of the police service, he noted, is weeded out, and the law is allowed to take its course.

Central Police Commander Samuel Ndanyi (left) at Boniface Kariuki's home in Karugia, Kangema, in Murang'a County on June 23, 2025./ALICE WAITHERA

“As you have seen, the NPS has been swift to take action, and the two officers involved have been arraigned in court.”

While expressing regret for the actions that led to Kariuki’s shooting, Ndanyi further noted that they are working closely with the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) and other relevant agencies to ensure justice is served fairly and without compromise.

“Let me express my deep regret over the tragic event where your beloved son was shot. We’re heartbroken by what happened and wish him a quick recovery. As a family, may you find the strength during this difficult time and accept our heartfelt sympathy.”

“We’re here not only as police officers but also as fellow Kenyans to offer our sympathy and stand with you and say that we feel your pain, and share your difficulties. We’re part of the communities we serve, and if one of us is hurt, all of us are affected.”

He said NPS does not condone police brutality or misconduct in any form, urging Kenyans not to allow the actions of a few to overshadow thousands of police officers serving the country with integrity, honour, and respect.

The police force, he added, has taken firm steps to offer better training, deepen community engagements, and enhance accountability systems to ensure such tragedies don’t recur.