Police officer arrested after shooting unarmed civilian during Kenya protest

A police officer has been arrested and will be arraigned in court after shooting an unarmed civilian during protests in Nairobi’s Central Business District, according to the National Police Service (NPS).

In a statement, the NPS confirmed that the Inspector-General of Police directed the officer’s immediate arrest following the incident, in which the officer discharged an anti-riot shotgun, seriously injuring a civilian.

NPS Spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga reported that the victim of Tuesday’s shooting is currently receiving medical treatment in hospital.

The NPS strongly condemned the officer’s actions, describing them as unacceptable.

At the same time, the Service says it noted the presence of violent elements infiltrating the protests, with some individuals seen armed with crude weapons. The NPS has initiated investigations to identify and prosecute the said individuals.

“The Service takes great exception and does not condone such unlawful groupings. Such individuals will be handled firmly, according to the law. Consequently, investigations have commenced to identify and deal with the criminals accordingly,” Nyaga stated.

The protests on Tuesday followed the mysterious death of Albert Ojwang, who had been arrested by police.