A Kenyan vendor in Nairobi CBD has been shot dead by a police officer during protests calling for justice over the death of teacher Albert Ojwang.
In multiple videos shared online, two officers are seen approaching the man who was standing on the sidewalk along the streets.
The officers beat him up twice before one of them moved at a further distance and made the shot.
The vendor, who was selling masks, lay on the floor with blood from his head injury covering the sidewalk for minutes before bystanders rushed over to help him.
Consequently, the vendor was rushed to receive emergency medical care by emergency responders and well-wishers.
Also Read: Live Blog: Protestor Shot in Nairobi CBD as Protests Escalate
Reactions Over the Shooting of the Kenyan Vendor
The Law Society of Kenya President, Faith Odhiambo, has said the incident is unacceptable, with Kenyans demanding accountability for police actions during the protests.
“It’s how he casually shot him in the head and continued walking like he had not just ended an unarmed man’s life. It’s so wrong for a state to give police this much immunity,” X user Kimanzi stated.
“That cop literally shot a man in the head! A man who was not even resisting?”
“They are now showing us that if they don’t agree with you they will kill you even in broad daylight. F**k the Kenyan police and all they stand for. Each and everyone of them,” Kenyan artist Charisma added on X.
“Man goes to city center, Man selling masks, Protests against injustices begin, Man stands on the side, Police show up, Police see man, Police question man for 1.5 seconds, Police shove man,
“Police shoot man in the head, Police walk off. THIS CAN’T BE OUR KENYA!” world renowned journalist Georgie Ndirangi stated.
Earlier, police officers were reported to have been protecting goons who invaded the city with knives and clubs, steaking from bystanders and protestors.
Also Read: Vehicles Torched as Protests Gain Momentum in Nairobi CBD
Role of Police in the Death of Ojwang
Police Constable James Mukhwana on Monday, June 16, revealed the role Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Police Eliud Lagat played in the events leading to the death of Homa Bay teacher Albert Ojwang.
While testifying, Mukhwana stated that DIG Lagat had issued orders, relayed through Central Police Station OCS Samson Talaam, for Ojwang to be disciplined.
Further, Mukhwana testified that upon receiving the directive, he was instructed to pick a few suspects from the cells to “teach Ojwang a lesson.”
He added that when he asked about the consequences should things get out of hand, he was assured that, as a low-ranking officer, he would not be held accountable.
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