Stop the brutality! Boniface Kariuki’s father to police

The father of a mask vendor shot by police at close range during Tuesday’s protest has condemned the incident.

Boniface Kariuki was selling masks when he was accosted by two police officers, during which one of them was filmed shooting him.

While reacting to the events that led to the hospitalisation of his son, Jonah Kariuki said police should endeavour to protect those who work hard to provide for themselves and their families.

"Ningeomba hawa askari wamefanya haya maneno wakome kwa sababu wanapiga watu innocent wenye wanajitafutia. Wakifanya hivyo itakuwa vizuri," he said.

This loosely translates to, “I want to urge the police officers who did this to stop harassing innocent people who are only trying to earn a living. It will be good if they do that.”

He spoke outside the Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) on Wednesday, after assessing the situation of his 22-year-old son.

The father was accompanied by Busia Senator and activist Okiya Omtatah.

Boniface was selling masks to protesters who had come out to demand justice over the murder of teacher and influencer Albert Ojwang.

The city mask vendor is currently undergoing surgery, with an intensive care unit (ICU) bed prepared for post-operative care.

Director General for Health Dr. Patrick Amoth confirmed that the patient is in the operating theatre with a neurosurgical team.

Kariuki’s shooting has caused uproar among leaders and Kenyans in general over the conduct of the police.

National Police Service, in a statement on Tuesday, condemned the incident and said the officer involved in the shooting has since been arrested.

The NPS said Inspector-General Douglas Kanja ordered the immediate arrest and arraignment of the officer involved.

“The said police officer has since been arrested,” the statement confirmed.

NPS said the cop will presented in court.