Mask Hawker Shot During Nairobi Protests Still Alive, Father Confirms

22-year-old Boniface Kariuki undergoes successful surgery after being shot in the head by police officer

NAIROBI, Kenya – A young mask vendor who was shot in the head by a police officer during Tuesday’s protests in Nairobi’s Central Business District is alive and recovering, his father confirmed Wednesday.

Boniface Kariuki, 22, underwent successful neurosurgery at Kenyatta National Hospital after being shot at close range while selling face masks during demonstrations that rocked the capital on June 17.

“I saw him, and he looked okay, although I can’t say he’s completely fine because of the machine. But I have faith he will recover,” said his father, Jonah Kariuki Nyambura, speaking to reporters outside the hospital.

The father confirmed that while his son has a heartbeat, he remains in critical condition and is being supported by life-sustaining machines following the emergency procedure.

Jonah Kariuki, Bonface’s father.

According to Jonah Kariuki, his son is a hardworking young man who makes his living as a hawker in the city. On the day of the protests, Boniface had opted to sell face masks to meet the increased demand caused by the teargas-filled demonstrations.

The incident, which was captured on video and widely circulated on social media, showed the young vendor being shot at point-blank range. Like many Kenyans, the father initially saw the footage online but was skeptical about its authenticity.

“His fears were confirmed when Boniface’s friends called to inform him that his son had indeed been shot, urging him to rush to Kenyatta National Hospital,” according to witness accounts.

Upon arriving at the hospital, Jonah Kariuki was initially not allowed to see his son immediately. However, after some time, the medical team permitted him access to the intensive care unit.

Boniface was admitted to Kenyatta National Hospital around 4:00 PM on Tuesday and was immediately booked for an emergency neurosurgical procedure due to his critical condition.

The shooting has sparked outrage among Kenyans, with many condemning the use of excessive force by police during the demonstrations. The incident highlights ongoing concerns about police brutality and the use of lethal force against civilians during protests.

The protests on Tuesday were part of demonstrations over the death of Kenyan blogger Albert Ojwang, who died in police custody, raising fresh concerns about law enforcement conduct in the country.

As Boniface Kariuki fights for his life, his case has become a symbol of the broader tensions between security forces and civilians exercising their constitutional right to peaceful protest.

The young man’s condition continues to be monitored by medical staff at Kenyatta National Hospital, with his family maintaining hope for his full recovery.

This is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available.