A 23-year-old boda boda rider from Ruiru is recovering in hospital after he was reportedly shot seven times with rubber bullets during the recent nationwide protests over rising fuel prices.
The young rider sustained multiple injuries during demonstrations that erupted across different parts of the country following public outrage over increased fuel costs and the growing cost of living crisis affecting many households.
According to reports, the rider was caught in the chaos during the protests and suffered severe injuries after being struck several times by rubber bullets believed to have been fired during efforts to disperse demonstrators.
Doctors in Kiambu have since managed to remove four of the seven rubber bullets lodged in his body as he continues receiving treatment under close medical observation.
Medical personnel handling the case say the rider remains in recovery, with efforts ongoing to monitor his condition and manage the remaining injuries sustained during the incident.
The case has once again renewed concerns over the use of force during public demonstrations, especially following several incidents reported across the country during the fuel price protests.
The protests, which were witnessed in major towns including Nairobi, Thika and other urban centres, disrupted transport operations and business activities as frustrated wananchi took to the streets to express anger over soaring fuel prices.
In some areas, demonstrations turned chaotic after confrontations between protesters and security officers, resulting in injuries, destruction of property and traffic paralysis along key roads.
Residents in Ruiru and neighbouring areas have expressed concern over the growing number of injuries linked to the protests, with some calling for restraint and proper crowd control measures during public demonstrations.
The rider’s family and friends have reportedly been visiting him in hospital as he continues receiving treatment and recovering from the traumatic ordeal.
Human rights concerns have also continued to emerge following reports of injuries sustained during the protests, with calls growing for authorities to ensure public safety while managing demonstrations.
Despite the painful experience, doctors remain optimistic about the rider’s recovery after the successful medical procedure to remove part of the lodged rubber bullets.
The incident adds to the growing national conversation surrounding public protests, economic hardships and policing methods during periods of civil unrest.
