Boniface Kariuki, the 22-year-old man shot while vending masks during Tuesday’s #JusticeforAlbertOjwang protests in Nairobi, is alive, his family has confirmed.
His father, John Kariuki, says Boniface is in critical condition but survived the near-fatal headshot, and he is fighting for his life in the ICU.
“The bullet went through just above his ear,” he said. “We thank God he is alive. But now we want justice.”
Boniface Kariuki, who was shot while vending masks, is alive- Father confirms.
Why was Boniface Kariuki Shot?
Boniface was selling face masks near Moi Avenue, just outside Azuri Restaurant, on June 17 when he was shot.
He was not part of the protest. He was not shouting or running. He was standing quietly against a wall, wearing a light blue jacket, with a few masks in his hands.
Two anti-riot police officers were seen in a now-viral video approaching him. One of them, carrying what appears to be a bolt-action hunting rifle, grabbed Boniface by the head, as if to push him away. Boniface pulled back. Another officer stepped in.
As the vendor turned to walk away, the officer raised the rifle and shot him point-blank in the head.
Boniface collapsed while still holding his cells. And the officers walked off, unfazed.
Red Cross personnel and members of the public rushed to Kenyatta National Hospital for help.
The video captured bystanders screaming, “Ameua! Hiyo sio poa!” (“He’s killed him! That’s not right!”).
For hours, many believed Boniface had died. The graphic video was widely shared, fueling shock and fury. But early Wednesday morning, the family confirmed that Boniface, who underwent surgery, had survived the gunshot and was receiving emergency care.
The incident has triggered a wave of anger across Kenya. The hashtag #JusticeForBonifaceKariuki trended on X, Instagram, and TikTok.
The officer who pulled the trigger has not been publicly identified, though IPOA (Independent Policing Oversight Authority) says it has launched a full investigation.
The National Police Service claims the cop who shot Boniface Kariuki has been arrested.
But the public isn’t convinced. Many believe the same pattern will repeat, no arrest, no trial, no justice.
Now, Boniface Kariuki’s father awaits for his son’s health updates. His voice is tired but clear.
Boniface Kariuki wasn’t a criminal. He was not fighting anyone. He was just trying to make a little money for food. That is all that got him shot on the head.
Boniface sold masks for a living. That was his only weapon. And on that day, it nearly cost him his life.
