A hawker selling face masks was shot by anti-riot police officers on Tuesday during protests held along Moi Avenue in Nairobi’s Central Business District. The demonstrations were aimed at demanding the resignation of Deputy Inspector General Eliud Lagat.
A disturbing video making rounds on social media captured the moment the hawker was attacked. Two uniformed officers were seen confronting the man before physically assaulting him. Moments later, one of the officers, who had already cocked his firearm, shot the hawker at close range. The officer then fled the scene, leaving the injured man on the ground.
Bystanders quickly came to the victim’s aid. Several passersby turned into rescuers, lifting the wounded hawker in a desperate attempt to save his life. The footage has since sparked nationwide outrage, with many Kenyans expressing anger over what they see as escalating police violence against civilians.
Among those who strongly condemned the incident is Law Society of Kenya (LSK) President Faith Odhiambo, who described the shooting as “unacceptable.” Her sentiments reflect growing public concern over the conduct of security officers during public demonstrations, especially those targeting senior officials.
The hawker’s shooting is just the latest incident in a series of reported police excesses during anti-Lagat demonstrations. Human rights groups and activists are now calling for immediate investigations and prosecution of the officers involved.
By Lucky Anyanje
