Fury erupted in Ndunyu, Nyandarua County, after a police officer allegedly shot a boda boda rider during a protest over cattle theft. The shooting triggered a violent reaction from locals, who stormed the police station and set it on fire, accusing authorities of neglect and brutality.
Highlights
- Boda boda rider was allegedly shot by a police officer during a peaceful protest.
- Locals were demonstrating against a spike in cattle theft in the area.
- Angry residents retaliated by setting the Ndunyu police station ablaze.
- Several county vehicles were destroyed in the fire.
- Tensions remain high as investigations into the shooting continue.
Main Story
On Thursday evening, residents of Ndunyu gathered outside their local police station to demand action against growing cases of cattle theft in the area. Among them was a boda boda rider who was reportedly shot by a police officer during the demonstration. Eyewitnesses claim the protest had been peaceful until the gunfire broke out.
Following the shooting, chaos broke loose. Enraged by the incident, the crowd turned on the police station, setting it on fire. Several government vehicles parked nearby were also torched. The protest, initially aimed at seeking justice, quickly morphed into a full-blown confrontation with law enforcement.
Residents say they have repeatedly reported livestock theft without meaningful response from authorities. Thursday’s events, they argue, are a direct result of long-standing neglect. The police shooting added fuel to an already volatile situation, leading to widespread destruction and a breakdown of public trust.
Local officials have confirmed the incident and stated that investigations into both the shooting and the arson attack have commenced. Human rights activists are also calling for accountability, particularly over the use of live ammunition on unarmed protesters.
When institutions fail to protect, communities take matters into their own hands — but at what cost? The flames at Ndunyu may cool, but the mistrust will take far longer to extinguish.
