A major step toward justice has been taken after the DPP approved murder charges against Police Constable Barasa Masinde, accused of fatally shooting hawker Boniface Kariuki during a June protest in Nairobi. A second officer, Duncan Kiprono, who was also under investigation, has been released without charges.
Highlights
- Officer Barasa Masinde to be charged with murder over fatal shooting.
- Boniface Kariuki, a hawker, was shot during protests on June 17 in Nairobi.
- Officer Duncan Kiprono, previously interdicted, has been cleared.
- The case sparked national outrage and renewed calls for police accountability.
Main Story
On June 17, 2025, protests in Nairobi’s CBD turned deadly when Boniface Kariuki, a young hawker, was shot at close range by a police officer. The incident, captured on video, showed police opening fire amid chaos along Tom Mboya Street. The footage quickly spread online, triggering public outcry and demands for justice.
Kariuki, who was rushed to hospital in critical condition, later died after being declared brain-dead from a gunshot wound to the head.
Following investigations by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) and the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA), the DPP has now approved murder charges against Constable Klinzy Barasa Masinde. He is currently remanded and awaiting arraignment in the High Court.
The DPP, however, found insufficient evidence to charge the second officer, Duncan Kiprono, who has since been released.
Cases of police officers being held criminally accountable in Kenya are rare. Barasa’s prosecution signals a possible turning point in how the justice system addresses police excesses. Civil society groups have welcomed the move, calling it a win for the victims of state violence.
Human rights organisations are also pushing for broader reforms in how police handle protests and interact with unarmed civilians.
As Barasa Masinde faces trial for the killing of Boniface Kariuki, Kenya watches closely—hoping this case becomes more than just headlines, but a true test of justice.
