Police Constable Klinzy Barasa, the officer who was captured on video shooting a mask vendor during the protests, was arraigned at the Milimani Law Courts to answer to murder charges. During his appearance in court, Barasa was formally charged with the murder of the vendor, later identified as Boniface Kariuki. He entered a plea of not guilty.
His legal team petitioned the court to grant him bail or bond, arguing that he is not a flight risk and would comply with court directives. However, the prosecution strongly opposed the request, citing the gravity of the offence and the need to ensure that justice is served without interference. They argued that releasing Barasa could undermine public confidence in the justice system, especially in a case that has already ignited nationwide attention.
How was Boniface Kariuki shot? The incident unfolded in the wake of protests over the death of blogger and teacher Albert Ojwang, who allegedly died as a result of torture while in custody at Nairobi’s Central Police Station. The protests had drawn crowds of concerned citizens demanding justice for Ojwang. However, a disturbing video clip that later went viral painted an even darker picture. In the footage, Barasa is seen alongside fellow officer Duncan Kiprono approaching the seemingly non-violent street vendor who had been selling face masks.
The man, later identified as Kariuki, was isolated from the crowd of demonstrators and appeared unarmed and non-threatening. Moments later, the video shows Barasa drawing his firearm and shooting Kariuki at close range. The bullet struck him in the head, and he collapsed in a pool of blood as bystanders screamed in horror. He was rushed to Kenyatta National Hospital where he later succumbed to his injuries while undergoing treatment, prompting a murder investigation by the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA)
By Harry Ivan Mboto
