The police officer involved in the close-range shooting of a mask vendor during protests in Nairobi’s Central Business District has been arrested, the National Police Service (NPS) has confirmed.
The incident took place on June 17, 2025, amid demonstrations calling for the resignation of Deputy Inspector General Eliud Lagat. The protests turned chaotic after gangs armed with crude weapons infiltrated the crowd, creating confusion and violence.
A now-viral video captured the moment two anti-riot officers confronted an unarmed vendor along Moi Avenue. After physically assaulting him, one of the officers pulled the trigger at close range, sparking national outrage. The man was later rushed to the hospital and is currently receiving treatment.
In a statement issued Tuesday evening, NPS spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga said the arrest followed direct orders from Inspector-General of Police Douglas Kanja. Although the Service did not release the officer’s identity or a photo confirming the arrest, contrary to typical procedure, they assured the public that investigations are ongoing.
“The Inspector-General has ordered the immediate arrest, investigation, and arraignment in court of the officer involved,” the statement read. “The said police officer has since been arrested.”
The statement also condemned the presence of armed gangs during the protest. The NPS labeled the group as illegal and warned that they, too, would be dealt with by the law. Investigations are underway to identify and apprehend those responsible for inciting violence during the protests.
This arrest comes as public anger grows over recent incidents of police brutality. Many are still reeling from the death of social media influencer Albert Ojwang’, who died in police custody under questionable circumstances. Human rights groups and citizens continue to demand justice and accountability for abuses committed by security officers.
By Risper Akinyi
