A violent outburst in Pumwani, Nairobi, has left the community reeling after protesters burned two police cars in response to the fatal shooting of a 17-year-old boy during a police operation in the Majengo area.
Incident Overview
On Tuesday night, police stopped a group of youths in the Majengo Social Hall area on suspicion of drug trafficking. The operation turned deadly when a suspect resisted, raised an alarm from a nearby mosque, and, amid the ensuing commotion, an officer fired a shot in self-defense. A 17-year-old boy was hit in the head and later pronounced dead at a hospital, while one officer sustained serious injuries to his hip, hand, and back.
Protests and Rising Tensions
In the early hours of Wednesday, March 5, angry protesters gathered near the scene, chanting “Allahu Akbar” and demanding accountability for the shooting. The demonstrators not only blocked major roads but also set fire to two police vehicles and attacked the local chief’s office. The unrest spread quickly to nearby areas, including the Gikomba market, disrupting business and daily life.
Witnesses described scenes of chaos as protesters lit bonfires and clashed with law enforcement. In response, police deployed tear gas and live rounds to disperse the crowd, attempting to restore order.
Community Impact and Ongoing Investigation
The tragic death of the young boy has sparked widespread outrage, with community members calling for thorough investigations into the circumstances of the incident. Nairobi Police Commander George Sedah confirmed that a meeting has been convened to discuss the way forward, as authorities work to contain the unrest and address the root causes of the violence.
The incident has raised serious concerns about police conduct and community safety, prompting calls for increased oversight and improved engagement between law enforcement and local residents.
