Aasai

The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) has strongly condemned the recent surge in police brutality and lawlessness witnessed during the anti-government protests held in Nairobi’s Central Business District (CBD) on June 17, 2025. In a statement issued on June 18, the LSK expressed deep concern over the shooting of Boniface Mwangi Kariuki, a hawker who was not involved in the demonstrations, yet was shot at close range by a police officer near Imenti House.

The horrifying incident, caught on video and widely circulated, shows the officer firing at the unarmed Kariuki at point-blank range. According to LSK, Kariuki was merely going about his daily business and was not participating in the protests when he was gunned down. He was rushed to Kenyatta National Hospital in critical condition, where the LSK said it hopes for his full recovery and continues to monitor his status.

Terming the shooting as premeditated and unconstitutional, LSK President Faith Odhiambo called it a gross violation of human rights and the Constitution. “This is a heinous crime and an affront to the Constitution that warrants full legal accountability and justice,” she stated.

The Law Society accused the police of using excessive force in response to calls for reform and peaceful assembly, arguing that the institution has increasingly met public dissent with violence, killings, and brutality. While confirming the arrest of the officer involved, the LSK criticised the National Police Service for withholding crucial details about the officer, including his name, rank, and service number.

LSK further demanded the swift indictment and prosecution of the officer, insisting that he should serve as an example of impunity within the ranks. “His punishment must send a strong message to all officers who violate their constitutional duties,” the statement read.

In addition to the shooting, LSK raised alarm over the emergence of militia-style gangs allegedly operating in collaboration with the police. According to the society, disturbing images and testimonies point to the presence of armed groups harassing civilians during the protests. Advocate Ken Ochieng, one of the victims, recounted how a police vehicle escorted a gang that later assaulted him along Koinange Street.

“These gangs, armed with crude weapons, did not target protestors but peaceful citizens, clearly intending to loot and injure,” LSK explained. The society accused the police of enabling these attacks by failing to intervene as shops were looted and valuables stolen.

LSK also condemned the arrest of four human rights activists in Mombasa—Francis Auma, Walid Sketty, Mugambi, and Batulie Swale—who were allegedly detained for unlawful assembly and assault, despite peacefully participating in the protests. One of them, Batulie Swale, was reportedly assaulted by a police officer before being violently arrested and bundled into a police vehicle.

The LSK confirmed it has secured bail for the four and will provide legal representation throughout their court proceedings. The society used the opportunity to reiterate its demand for urgent police reforms, insisting that the National Police Service must uphold the law, not break it.

“The police have abandoned their duty to protect citizens and have instead become a threat to public safety and freedoms,” LSK concluded.