A family is seeking justice after their 19-year-old son was critically injured during the 'Nane Nane' protests in Karatina Town.
Thiongo, who was not involved in the protests, was on his way home from work when masked security officers shot him. He is now in the ICU at Kenyatta National Hospital, fighting for his life.
The protests in Karatina last Thursday turned violent as four men, driving an unmarked Subaru, roamed the town, firing live ammunition at protesters to disperse them. Eight people, including Thiongo, sustained gunshot wounds and were rushed to Karatina Sub-County Hospital.
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Thiongo, a salonist, was shot in the chest as he left work. The bullet exited through his back, causing severe injuries that required specialized treatment. He was quickly referred to Kenyatta National Hospital, where he underwent surgery and is now in stable condition but remains in the ICU.
Thiongo's mother, Diana Wambui, expressed her distress over the incident, highlighting the financial burden of his medical treatment and questioning the use of excessive force by the police. She also shared that Thiongo was set to join college in two weeks, a plan now delayed by the tragic events.
The family is appealing for blood donations to help Thiongo recover and is urging the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) to investigate the incident to ensure justice is served. Thiongo's friend, Meshack Owour, emphasized that the protests were peaceful, with participants carrying only flags and water, and condemned the use of live ammunition by the police.
The incident has sparked outrage, with many calling for accountability and justice for those injured during the protests.