A Nairobi court has granted detectives 15 days to detain Constables Masinde Klinzy Barasa and Duncan Kiprono as investigations continue into the shooting of a hawker during city centre protests.
The incident took place on June 17, amid demonstrations against police brutality. Video footage shared widely on social media allegedly shows Barasa firing into a crowd near Tom Mboya Street while Kiprono stood beside him.
According to eyewitness accounts, the victim, 22-year-old Boniface Mwangi Kariuki was vending surgical masks and not participating in the protest when a bullet struck him near the ear.
Paramedics rushed Kariuki to Kenyatta National Hospital, where he underwent emergency surgery. He remains in the Intensive Care Unit. His family has called for justice, urging authorities to act swiftly.
Detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) arrested Barasa and Kiprono following public pressure and handed them over to the homicide unit.
The National Police Service interdicted the officers, and the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) launched a parallel probe into the shooting.
Senior Magistrate Benmark Ekhubi, presiding at Milimani Law Courts, approved the prosecution’s request to detain the officers, stating, “The respondents will be held for a period of 15 days to allow IPOA and DCI to complete investigations.”
The court heard that investigators require additional time to retrieve ballistic reports, obtain witness statements, and analyse footage of the incident. Detective Nahashon Zoka, in a sworn affidavit, emphasized the seriousness of the case, noting, “There is a real likelihood that the respondents may intimidate or interfere with witnesses and crucial evidence. Due to the serious nature of the offence, they are also considered a flight risk.”
Authorities confirmed the potential charges include attempted murder and unlawful use of a firearm. A source close to the investigation added, “This matter is serious and requires full inquiry. We are closely monitoring every step.”
The shooting occurred during protests triggered by the custodial death of teacher and blogger Albert Ojwang. Demonstrators had gathered in Nairobi’s Central Business District calling for reforms and accountability within the police service.
Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja publicly condemned the shooting and vowed cooperation with investigative bodies. The case will return to court on July 3 for a mention and status update on the probe.
