Kenyan police shoot unarmed civilian during protests

On June 17, 2025, during protests in Nairobi, Kenya, a civilian was shot by a police officer at close range. The shooting occurred amidst demonstrations against police brutality following the death of a blogger in custody earlier that month. Witnesses reported that the man, who was believed to be a vendor selling face masks, was not involved in the protests. The officer, who concealed his face with a mask, fired a shotgun at the vendor as he walked away from a confrontation with police, hitting him in the head. Following the incident, the injured man was taken to a local hospital for treatment. His survival was later confirmed by a spokesperson at the facility, which also reported several other injuries from the protests. The protests erupted in response to the arrest of the blogger, Albert Ojwang, who had been accused of defamation by a senior police official, Eliud Langat. The blogger died while in custody, prompting public outrage and demands for accountability from the police. This incident reignited criticisms over police violence, a longstanding issue in Kenya. Protests turned violent as motorcycle riders clashed with demonstrators, leading to further chaos in the capital. The police released a statement expressing concern over the shooting and confirmed the arrest of the officer involved. However, the public outcry intensified, with many Kenyans demanding justice for victims of police brutality. Protests have a history of escalating into violence in Kenya, particularly when police actions are perceived as excessive. President William Ruto had previously made promises to address police misconduct, but incidents like this continue to undermine public trust in law enforcement. The case highlights the challenges faced by the Kenyan justice system in holding police accountable. While there have been calls for reforms and improved oversight of police practices, the struggle continues for many Kenyans who have suffered due to police violence. As the investigation into the incident unfolds, there remains a growing sense of urgency among the public for meaningful change and greater accountability within the police force.