Face Mask Vendor Shot During Protest Sparks National Outrage
A shocking incident in Nairobi’s central business district has sparked nationwide anger in today’s Gen z protest.
During Tuesday’s protests calling for justice for Albert Ojwang’, a face mask vendor was brutally assaulted and shot in the head by anti-riot police along Moi Avenue.
The disturbing act was captured on video and shared widely on social media, showing two officers cornering the unarmed young man.
They first beat him senseless and then one officer opened fire at close range. The violence took place in broad daylight, in front of horrified onlookers.
LSK President: “Arrest the Second Officer Too”
Following the incident, Faith Odhiambo, President of the Law Society of Kenya (LSK), has spoken out strongly.
While the National Police Service (NPS) announced that the officer who fired the gun has been arrested, Odhiambo insists that his colleague must also be arrested.
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“It’s not just the shooter. His colleague was right there. You can see him pushing the victim and then running away with the shooter,” she said during an interview on Spice FM on Wednesday.
“He is an accessory. They both took part, and they must be held accountable,” she added firmly.
Call for Transparency and Accountability
Odhiambo also criticized the NPS for failing to name the arrested officer. She pointed out that members of the public had already begun identifying the officer on social media, along with his family.
“I’m waiting to see an official statement with his full name. Kenyans online have already identified him and are calling him out,” she said.
She urged authorities to be transparent with the investigation, saying silence would only deepen the public’s anger and suspicion.
IPOA Must Speak Out
Besides the NPS, Odhiambo called on the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) to release a public statement.
She asked them to inform Kenyans about any steps taken against the officers involved in the violent assault.
“IPOA must come out and tell Kenyans what action they are taking. This cannot be treated like just another case,” she said.
Protests Turn Chaotic as Goons Infiltrate Demonstrators
The protests, which started peacefully with youths demanding justice for Albert Ojwang’, quickly turned chaotic.
Goons infiltrated the demonstrations, creating confusion and disrupting the peaceful calls for accountability.
Among the demands was the resignation of Deputy Inspector General Eliud Lagat, who many believe is connected to the death of Ojwang’, who died in police custody under suspicious circumstances.
Victim Undergoes Emergency Surgery
After the shooting, the injured youth was rushed to Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH). According to Health Director-General Patrick Amoth, he underwent emergency neurosurgical surgery and is currently receiving intensive medical care.
Doctors and nurses at KNH are working round the clock to stabilize his condition. Meanwhile, the video of the shooting continues to circulate widely, adding fuel to an already enraged public.
Growing Calls for Justice
Across the country, Kenyans are expressing outrage and heartbreak. Many are demanding swift justice and an end to police brutality.
Additionally, on social media and in interviews, people are asking why police officers continue to use excessive force on unarmed citizens, especially during peaceful demonstrations.
Faith Odhiambo’s strong statement has added weight to these calls. She reminded the police and oversight bodies that citizens are watching and will not stay silent in the face of violence.
What Happens Next?
However, as investigations continue, the country waits to see if both officers involved will face criminal charges and whether the police leadership will take full responsibility.
The incident has become a symbol of unchecked police violence, and many hope it will lead to real reforms—not just promises.
