Police Shoot Dead Unarmed Man During Nairobi Protests

NAIROBI, June 17, 2025 – A protester was fatally shot by police during demonstrations in Nairobi’s Central Business District on Tuesday, escalating tensions amid ongoing calls for justice over alleged police brutality.

The victim, whose identity has not been released, was killed during protests demanding accountability for the death of teacher and blogger Albert Ojwang, who died in police custody under controversial circumstances.

Demonstrators were also calling for the resignation of Police Deputy Inspector-General Eliud Lagat.

Graphic images circulating on social media seen by Kenya Insights show the deceased lying motionless on the ground as shocked fellow demonstrators look on.

A now-viral video shows two police officers confronting the man, who was reportedly selling face masks.

The officers briefly corner him and assault him before one of them opens fire at close range.

According to witness accounts and photographic evidence, the man was initially seen conversing with two police officers before an altercation erupted, leading to one officer opening fire at close range.

The shooting occurred as protesters had gathered at various points in the CBD, including Aga Khan Walk, after police used tear gas to disperse their initially planned peaceful march.

Coordinated disruption

Tuesday’s protests were marked by an unusual and concerning development – the deployment of hooded men on motorbikes who poured into the CBD chanting “hakuna maandamano!” (no demonstrations).

These suspected hired thugs worked in apparent coordination with police forces to terrorize protesters and members of the public.

The goons, with faces covered, were captured on video encouraging police to beat protesters and were later seen attempting to break into shops along Moi Avenue, including an electronics outlet.

Despite their illegal activities occurring in full view of law enforcement, police made no apparent effort to stop them initially.

In one incident on Koinange Street, police had to rescue a suspected goon after he was roughed up by bodaboda riders who accused him of being a thief. The man was quickly bundled into a police vehicle and driven away.

Police violence

The fatal shooting adds to mounting concerns about police conduct during demonstrations.

Protesters carried placards reading “Justice for Ojwang” and “Stop Police Brutality,” highlighting what they describe as a pattern of extrajudicial killings by security forces.

“This is not just about Albert Ojwang,” one protester told reporters.

“It’s about all those who died last year, and the many more who continue to suffer in silence.”

Human rights organizations have documented numerous cases of what they term “unlawful use of force” by security agencies during recent demonstrations.

The events have renewed pressure on the government to launch independent investigations into police conduct during demonstrations.

Activists and civil society groups are demanding accountability for the escalating violence against civilians.

The timing is particularly significant as the first anniversary of the GenZ protests approaches on June 25th, a period that saw widespread demonstrations and allegations of excessive force by security personnel.

Authorities have not yet issued an official statement regarding Tuesday’s fatal shooting or the deployment of suspected hired thugs alongside police forces.

The incident raises serious questions about the state’s approach to managing peaceful protests and protecting citizens’ constitutional rights.

The death marks another tragic escalation in the ongoing tensions between protesters demanding police accountability and security forces accused of using excessive force against civilians exercising their democratic rights.

This is a developing story. Updates will follow as more information becomes available.