A Nairobi court has ordered the detention of two police officers, Constables Klinzy Masinde Baraza and Duncan Kiprono, for 15 days as investigations continue into the alleged shooting of a hawker during anti-government protests held on Tuesday, June 17, 2025.

Senior Magistrate Benmark Ekhubi granted the application by the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), allowing the officers to be held at Capitol Hill Police Station until July 3, 2025, to facilitate ongoing investigations by the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) and the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI).

The DPP, through prosecutor Victor Owiti, initially sought 21 days to detain the suspects, but both the prosecution and defense eventually agreed to a shorter period of 15 days.

“The court hereby allows the application by the prosecution. The respondents will be held for a period of 15 days to allow IPOA and DCI to complete investigations,” ruled Magistrate Ekhubi.

The officers are alleged to have assaulted and shot Boniface Mwangi Kariuki, a hawker, along Mondlane Street in Nairobi’s Central Business District during the protests.

 According to an affidavit filed by Cpl. Nahashon Zoka, an officer attached to the Homicide Bureau at the DCI headquarters, the victim was critically injured and rushed to Kenyatta National Hospital by good Samaritans.

He later underwent surgery and was admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU).

In the affidavit, Detective Zoka stated: “The respondents are suspected to have shot one Kariuki on June 17, 2025 during demonstrations within Nairobi CBD, and are therefore subject to possible investigations by IPOA for offences including but not limited to Grievous Harm contrary to Section 234 of the Penal Code.”

Zoka further highlighted the gravity of the case and the risks posed if the officers were released with bond terms pending investigations.

“There is a real likelihood that the respondents may intimidate or interfere with witnesses and crucial evidence. Due to the serious nature of the offence, they are also considered a flight risk.”

The court heard that forensic analysis of samples collected at the scene are to be done.

Owiti further stated that police have yet to retrieve and examine CCTV footage from the area where the hawker was shot.

“We also need to record statements from witnesses, including the victim who is still unable to speak,” Owiti said.

The two officers, Masinde and Kiprono, are being investigated for the offence of causing grievous harm to the hawker.