This archive report was first published on 10 September 2019.
On September 9, 2019, a matatu driver was shot and seriously injured by police in Embu County, sparking widespread protests among residents.
The incident occurred at a roadblock in Kangaru village, where police officers were manning a checkpoint. The driver allegedly defied orders to stop for inspection, prompting one of the senior officers to open fire.
Witnesses claimed the police suspected the driver was carrying criminals in the matatu, which led to the shooting. However, residents disputed this claim, saying the driver had stopped as instructed.
"The officers wanted to check whether there were criminals among the passengers but the driver failed to stop forcing the law enforcers to act by shooting him," said Ms Mary Kageni, a witness.
County Police Commander Daniel Rukunga confirmed the incident and promised to provide a comprehensive statement later.
