A disturbing video showing an armed man aiming a rifle at a student hostel in Kikuyu Constituency has sparked public outrage across Kenya. The footage, which circulated widely on social media on Saturday morning, captured a tense nighttime scene at a residential building near the University of Nairobi’s Kikuyu campus.
In the video, the man, dressed in plain clothes, is seen approaching the hostel with at least two accomplices. While his colleagues entered the building, he positioned himself at a window, pointing a firearm at the occupants inside. Students can be heard screaming and attempting to defend themselves, with one man shouting, “Everybody lie down. Hands up, don’t lie to each other. Bring your hand.”
The viral footage has triggered a wave of criticism, with Kenyans questioning the necessity and proportionality of the use of force. “A police officer walked into a civilian’s house and discharged a military-grade weapon like he was clearing terrorists. Who authorised this?” asked one online user. Others called for a full investigation to determine the identities of the armed men and the reasons behind their actions.
The incident has intensified discussions about police conduct and accountability, highlighting ongoing concerns over the use of excessive force against civilians. Just two days earlier, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Murkomen had faced questions from senators about a surge in police brutality cases. The CS dismissed claims that brutality had worsened under the current administration but acknowledged that the government was implementing measures to reduce such incidents.
“The issue of police misconduct is not new. These incidents have occurred for decades, but this administration is committed to reversing the trend,” Murkomen told lawmakers.
As the Kikuyu hostel video continues to circulate online, pressure is mounting on the National Police Service to clarify the events and ensure that any officers involved are held accountable. Students, parents, and the wider public are calling for swift action, emphasizing that law enforcement should protect citizens rather than threaten their safety.
The episode adds to a growing national debate on the limits of police authority, the need for proper training, and stricter oversight of armed officers, particularly when interacting with civilians in residential and public spaces.
