Margaret Njeri, a 22-year-old woman, was celebrating her birthday on January 15, 2015, with hopes of a bright year ahead. She had completed her secondary education in 2013 and planned to join university, pursuing a career in law. At the time, she worked as a secretary at George Wakahiu Advocates in Mpeketoni.
On February 17, 2015, while moving along Kanyanyaini in Mpeketoni, Lamu County, she used the services of a boda boda. They encountered a traffic policeman, Paul Tanui, who waved the rider to stop, expecting a bribe of 50 shillings. The rider ignored Tanui, prompting him to throw his gun, which missed the rider but hit Ms. Njeri's head, leaving her unconscious.
Tanui was subsequently transferred from Mpeketoni Police Station to Kizingitini Police Station, with National Police Service Chairman Johnstone Kavuludi stating the move was for 'security reasons'. Ms. Njeri underwent three surgeries costing approximately 2 million shillings before succumbing to her injuries on Sunday.
Her family, including her mother, Mariam Njeri Njuguna, and the late Mr. Njuguna, who passed away in 2009, are seeking justice. Questions have been raised over who will be held accountable for her death and whether the government will take responsibility for the actions of its officer.
The Daily Nation has covered Maggy's story on several occasions, highlighting concerns over police accountability and the need for justice in this case.
