Police Officer Charged With Murder Of Nairobi Mask Vendor Boniface Kariuki
Tears, tension, and justice collide as the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Renson Igonga, charges Police Constable Klinzy Masinde Baraza with murder. Baraza allegedly gunned down Boniface Mwangi Kariuki, a Nairobi mask vendor, during anti-police brutality protests on June 17, 2025.
The DPP confirmed the decision on Tuesday.m
“Following the conclusion of investigations and analysis of evidence, we have preferred a murder charge against PC Klinzy Baraza,” said Igonga.
“We are committed to ensuring accountability and justice for the family of the deceased.”
Videos that circulated online captured Baraza charging toward peaceful protesters near Imenti House. He fired the first bullet as people screamed. Kariuki fell. Another officer hit him with the butt of a firearm. Then, Baraza fired again—this time, into Kariuki’s head at close range.
The horrifying footage sparked widespread public outrage.
“He was unarmed. He was running. Why did they kill him?” cried a protester at the scene.
Kariuki, bleeding and unconscious, was rushed to Bliss Medical Centre. He received emergency aid while awaiting an ambulance. He was later transferred to Kenyatta National Hospital’s ICU. Sadly, he passed away on Monday, June 30 at 3:15 PM.
His tragic death sent shockwaves across the nation. Many Kenyans took to the streets again, demanding justice.
“The police are supposed to protect, not execute civilians. This is murder!” shouted a human rights activist outside Parliament.
Baraza and a second officer, Duncan Kiprono, were arrested on June 19. Both were based at Kileleshwa Police Station. The court allowed IPOA to detain them for 15 days for investigations. However, Kiprono has since been freed due to insufficient evidence.
“While one has been released, the other will face the full force of the law,” the DPP stated firmly.
Meanwhile, Kariuki’s body lies in wait for burial. A requiem mass was held at Holy Family Basilica in Nairobi on Wednesday. He will be laid to rest in Kangema, Murang’a County.
Kariuki’s family, crushed by grief, described him as peaceful and hardworking.
“He was just trying to earn a living. Now he’s gone. We need answers and justice,” said his sister, weeping.
The incident underscores the urgent calls for police reform. The protests were against brutality—and brutality answered with bullets.
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Police Officer Charged With Murder Of Nairobi Mask Vendor Boniface Kariuki
