The two police officers at the centre of public outrage for shooting a hawker during Tuesday’s protest in Nairobi—Masinde Baraza and Duncan Kiprono—are set to be arraigned in court today. The Kileleshwa-based officers have become the face of a disturbing case that has reignited fierce criticism of police conduct in Kenya.
Highlights
- Masinde Baraza and Duncan Kiprono are accused of assaulting and shooting hawker Boniface Mwangi.
- The incident happened during protests on Tuesday, caught on camera and witnessed by the public.
- Both officers are expected in court today to face legal action.
- The case has triggered renewed calls for police accountability.
Main Story
Masinde Baraza and Duncan Kiprono, stationed at Kileleshwa Police Station, are accused of assaulting and shooting Nairobi hawker Boniface Mwangi Kariuki during a protest held on Tuesday. The act was captured on video, showing the hawker being physically attacked before one officer opened fire at close range with a bullet.
The footage spread rapidly online, triggering widespread anger from the public and prompting immediate action from law enforcement leadership. The officers were arrested and are currently in custody at Capitol Hill Police Station.
Both officers are expected in court today to answer to charges related to the incident. Legal experts say the case could be a litmus test for Kenya’s justice system when it comes to handling police violence, especially when there’s irrefutable public evidence.
Civil rights groups, legal watchdogs, and activists have condemned the shooting and called for full accountability. The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) and the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) have pledged to monitor the court process closely.
As Baraza and Kiprono step into court, all eyes remain on the justice system—will this be a turning point or just another case swept under the rug?
