Officer Who Shot Mask Hawker in Nairobi Arrested After Shocking Protest Incident
In a swift and firm move, Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja ordered the officer’s immediate arrest and arraignment following public outrage and viral videos of the disturbing incident.
“The said police officer has since been arrested,” Police Spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga confirmed in a press release on Wednesday.
Tragic Turn: What Really Happened on Mondlane Street
Footage shows the officer first firing at demonstrators from Moi Avenue. Then, without warning, he turned back toward the crowd.
Eli stood peacefully on the other side of the street.
But within moments, the officer and a colleague approached Eli. They began to beat him, forcing him to the ground.
“The second officer struck him with the butt of his gun,” a witness said.
Then, chillingly, the first officer took aim and shot Eli in the head at close range.
Red Cross Blocked, Chaos Escalates Outside Hospital
Bleeding and helpless, Eli was rushed by fellow protesters to Bliss Medical Centre near Archives. Medical staff provided first aid as they awaited an ambulance.
Just when help seemed close, chaos erupted again.
“A Red Cross ambulance approached but retreated after police fired teargas at the crowd,” one protester recalled.
Despite the confusion, the ambulance returned and safely transported Eli to Kenyatta National Hospital, where he remains in critical care.
“The victim was taken to the hospital and is receiving medical attention,” Nyaga stated.
Nation Outraged as Public Calls for Justice
The incident, which unfolded in broad daylight and was captured on multiple phones, has left Kenyans in shock.
Many online users demanded justice and questioned the increasing police brutality seen during recent protests.
“This wasn’t crowd control. It was attempted murder,” one user wrote on X (formerly Twitter).
First Government Response Since Shooting
This arrest marks the first public action by the government since the shooting, which occurred around 4 p.m. during anti-government protests in the CBD.
As the nation watches closely, human rights groups and civilians continue to demand accountability, transparency, and protection for peaceful demonstrators.
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Officer Who Shot Mask Hawker in Nairobi Arrested After Shocking Protest Incident
