A police officer filmed shooting an unarmed bystander during protests in Nairobi’s Central Business District has been arrested, the National Police Service has confirmed.
The officer, armed with an anti-riot shotgun, was captured on video firing at close range, fatally wounding the civilian who was selling face masks.
In a statement, the NPS said it viewed the incident with “great concern.” The victim was rushed to hospital, and according to police, is receiving medical attention.
Following the circulation of the footage online, the Inspector General ordered the immediate arrest of the officer, whose identity has not been disclosed.
The statement noted that the officer, whose identity remains undisclosed, has since been arrested and will be arraigned tomorrow.
Meanwhile, police have raised the alarm over the presence of what they termed as “goons” armed with crude weapons during the protests in the CBD.
“The service takes great exception and does not condone such unlawful groupings,” the statement by NPS Spokesman, Muchiri Nyaga read.
The service vowed firm action against anyone engaging in unlawful acts, stating that investigations are underway to identify and prosecute those involved.