The family of Boniface Kariuki, a hawker who was shot at close range by a police officer during anti-government protests in Nairobi, is now struggling with a soaring hospital bill and a heartbreaking case of fraud. His father, Jonah Kariuki, revealed on Thursday that the family has already lost Ksh.200,000 to conmen who falsely claimed they would help cover Boniface’s hospital expenses.
According to Jonah, the fraud began when a caller posed as a well-wisher and asked for Ksh.20,000 to facilitate registration for financial aid. After complying and providing his personal details, Jonah later discovered that a total of Ksh.200,500 had been siphoned from his bank account. He has since filed an official report, and investigations are ongoing to track down those responsible.
At the same time, the medical costs are rising quickly. The preliminary hospital bill at Kenyatta National Hospital currently stands at Ksh.1 million and continues to increase daily. Boniface remains in critical condition at the ICU, relying on life support. Family spokesperson Emily Wanjiru confirmed that his condition is dire, noting that Boniface has suffered irreversible brain damage. “The brain capacity of a healthy person is 15/15. For Boniface, it’s 2/15,” she said.
The family is now appealing for justice and accountability. No official from the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) or the homicide unit has contacted the family, prompting them to seek legal representation.
Wanjiru further explained that Boniface’s left side is completely paralyzed, and while there have been slight signs of improvement, he still cannot speak. Doctors have performed two surgeries to remove a bullet from his head, and his recovery remains uncertain.
The family continues to push for the prosecution of the police officer involved and urges the public to support Boniface’s treatment and legal battle.
By Yockshard Enyendi
