- A police officer has been disarmed and interdicted after fatally shooting 17-year-old Ibrahim Ramadan Chege in Majengo, Nairobi.
- The incident sparked violent protests, resulting in four more deaths and significant property destruction.
- Police have launched an investigation, with IPOA and human rights groups calling for accountability.
- Protesters demand justice, highlighting ongoing concerns over police brutality and excessive force.
- Human rights organizations insist on reforms and better law enforcement accountability.
On Tuesday night, an undercover police officer in Majengo, Nairobi, engaged in a confrontation with a group of youths near the Majengo Social Hall. The officer suspected one of the youths of drug trafficking and attempted to search. The suspect resisted arrest and called for help, leading to an altercation. As tensions escalated, the officer discharged his firearm, fatally injuring 17-year-old Ibrahim Ramadan Chege.
Following the incident, violent protests erupted, with residents demanding justice. At least four people were killed, and dozens injured in the riots that followed. The protests saw police using tear gas and live bullets to disperse crowds, further intensifying public outrage.
Police Response and Investigations
In response to the public outcry, authorities launched an investigation. Police spokesperson Michael Muchiri confirmed that the officer involved had been identified and interdicted.
“Necessary action has been taken, including disarming and interdicting the officer. We have also notified the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) to ensure full compliance with the law,” said Muchiri.
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) and the Internal Affairs Unit (IAU) are now reviewing the case. IPOA has also been engaged to ensure an impartial inquiry into the officer’s actions.
Destruction and Casualties During Protests.
The protests led to significant destruction of property, with demonstrators targeting government buildings and police vehicles. Among the damaged properties were:
A Volkswagen Amarok police vehicle with shattered windows.
Staff houses at Kamukunji AP headquarters, which were set ablaze.
Government offices, including the Pumwani location chief’s office and Majengo sub-location assistant chief’s office, which were torched.
Authorities reported at least 37 injuries, including three police officers, as the situation spiraled out of control.
Human Rights Groups Demand Accountability
Human rights organizations, including the Kenya Human Rights Commission (KHRC) and Kamukunji Human Rights Defenders, condemned the use of excessive force by police and called for a full investigation.
“We demand that IPOA launch an investigation into the officers responsible for these shootings and ensure that those found guilty face justice,” read a joint statement from the organizations.
They emphasized that citizens have a constitutional right to protest and urged law enforcement to exercise restraint when handling demonstrators.
Public Outcry Over Police Brutality
The incident has reignited debates about police accountability in Kenya. Majengo residents and activists insist on greater transparency and better handling of confrontations by law enforcement officers.
Kenya has seen multiple cases of police brutality over the years, particularly in low-income and marginalized areas. The Majengo shooting has once again put the spotlight on the need for comprehensive police reforms.
Call for Justice and Systemic Reforms
As the investigation continues, human rights groups, activists, and the public are closely watching the actions taken by IPOA and other agencies.
“The right to protest must be respected, and law enforcement should exercise restraint when dealing with demonstrators,” reiterated KHRC in a follow-up statement.
With the officer already interdicted and investigations underway, the community hopes this will be a turning point in addressing excessive police force. Many are calling for systemic reforms to ensure justice for the victims and prevent future tragedies.
The Majengo shooting has left a deep scar on the community. As authorities work towards justice, the hope remains that this tragic event will lead to lasting reforms and greater accountability within Kenya’s police force.
