The Kenya Union of Journalists (KUJ) has condemned the brutality inflicted on members of the press during a raid at Kettle House Bar and Grill in Lavington.
In a statement issued on Saturday, KUJ Secretary General Erick Oduor called the event in which two journalists were attacked and their equipment was destroyed "barbaric," and he called for punishment against those responsible.
He went on to ask the authorities to bring the perpetrators to justice and the owner of the entertainment venue to accept responsibility for the damages.
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“During the crackdown against the consumption of banned substance, Shisha, security team at Kettle House unleashed terror on journalists, stabbing two of them and destroying their tools of trade. We condemn this unwarranted violence against journalists and demand that punitive action must be taken against these criminals in line with the law,” Mr. Oduor stated.
“These barbaric acts have no place in a civilized society like Kenya, and we count on law enforcers to hold the owner of the night club liable for the damages and injuries the journalists sustained during the ugly incident,” he added.
The union president emphasized the importance of the press in society and stated that media workers should be safeguarded while on the job.
He pleaded with Kileleshwa Police Station OCS, where the 21 suspects who have already been apprehended are being held, to ensure that the victims of the attack receive justice.
“Journalists have every right to serve the society where public interests matters are concerned and their calling for the greater good of Kenya cannot be obstructed by violence,” Oduor noted.
"We call on police, especially the Officer Commanding Kileleshwa Police Station where some suspects in connection with the attacks are being held to ensure journalists get justice."
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