A hawker selling face masks was shot dead at close range by police officers on Tuesday afternoon amid running battles between protesters and law enforcement officers in Nairobi’s Central Business District (CBD).
The incident occurred along Moi Avenue in the early afternoon during a demonstration demanding the resignation of Deputy Inspector General of Police, Eliud Lagat.
According to a video widely circulated on social media, the victim, a hawker selling face masks, was accosted by two police officers who appeared to corner him before launching a brutal assault. The footage shows the officers raining blows on the unarmed man. Moments later, one of the officers, heavily armed, cocked his weapon and opened fire at the man at close range. The officers then fled the scene, leaving the victim bleeding on the pavement.
Eyewitnesses reported that members of the public quickly intervened, carrying the injured man away in a desperate attempt to save his life. Despite their efforts, he was later confirmed dead. His identity has not yet been made public, and it remains unclear whether he was involved in the protests or simply caught in the chaos.
The video of the hawker’s shooting has sparked widespread outrage across the country, with many Kenyans condemning the act as a clear case of extrajudicial killing. Social media platforms are flooded with messages of anger and grief, with citizens calling for accountability under the trending hashtag #JusticeForTheHawker.
The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) President, Faith Odhiambo, issued a strong statement in response, calling the act “unacceptable” and demanding immediate accountability.
Tuesday’s protests were part of a growing wave of unrest following accusations of abuse of power and excessive use of force by Deputy Inspector General, Eliud Lagat, and his team. Demonstrators are demanding his resignation, and a broader reform of police conduct in Kenya.
Authorities, including the National Police Service, have not yet issued an official statement regarding the shooting. However, pressure continues to mount for the officers involved to be identified, suspended, and prosecuted.
This incident adds to the growing list of alleged cases of police brutality in Kenya, sparking renewed calls for systemic reforms within the security sector.
Investigations are ongoing. More updates to follow.
Written By Rodney Mbua
WATCH THE VIDEOS OF THE INCIDENT HERE:
