Man In Viral Video Chasing Police With Panga Charged in Nakuru Court

Protester’s nationality questioned as charge sheet reveals he is Kenyan, contrary to initial police claims

NAKURU – A man who became an internet sensation after he was captured on video chasing police officers with a panga during violent protests in Nakuru has been charged in court, with his case exposing conflicting information about his nationality.

Paul Oriti, who also goes by the alias Hassan Mti Mkavu, appeared before Principal Magistrate Kipkurui Kibelion on Wednesday where he faced four charges related to the June 11 incident at London Estate in Nakuru West Sub-County.

The charges against the 28-year-old include creating a public disturbance in a manner likely to breach the peace, obstructing police officers from executing their duties, participating in unlawful demonstrations, and being armed in a public place without lawful authority.

The dramatic confrontation was captured on video and went viral on social media platforms, showing Oriti aggressively pursuing police officers Charles Francis and Corporal Kambo while wielding a panga.

The footage emerged during protests that erupted following the fatal shooting of Daniel Nderitu, a local resident, by police officers.

According to the prosecution, Oriti caused a public disturbance by “shouting aggressively and waving a panga at police officers” during the demonstrations.

He is also accused of charging at the officers while armed with the weapon, thereby obstructing them from performing their duties.

The panga was presented as an exhibit in court during the proceedings.

Nationality controversy

Paul Oriti alias Hassan Mti Mkavu

The case has been complicated by conflicting reports about Oriti’s nationality. Initial police reports claimed that the suspect was a Ugandan national, but the charge sheet reviewed by local media revealed that he is actually Kenyan.

This discrepancy has raised questions about the accuracy of police intelligence and whether there was an attempt to portray the protests as being influenced by foreign elements.

The demonstrations that led to Oriti’s arrest began on June 9 following the controversial death of Daniel Nderitu, who was allegedly shot by police during an operation in London Estate.

Reports suggest that Nderitu was killed after reportedly refusing to pay a bribe to officers.

The incident sparked widespread anger among residents, leading to several days of violent protests that disrupted business activities and traffic flow in the area.

The demonstrations saw confrontations between police and angry youth, with protesters attempting to barricade major roads including the busy Nakuru-Kabarak Road.

In the aftermath of the protests, ten police officers were suspended and arrested in connection with Nderitu’s shooting.

They remain under investigation for murder by the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA).

Seven of these officers were recently ordered to remain in detention for an additional seven days as investigations continue. Senior Magistrate Cynthia Cherono granted the detention order, citing the ongoing nature of the investigations.

Court proceedings

Oriti denied all charges when they were read to him in court. Principal Magistrate Kibelion released him on a bond of Sh100,000 with a surety of the same amount, or alternatively, a cash bail of Sh50,000.

The case has been scheduled for mention on July 1, when further directions on the proceedings will be given.