Law Society of Kenya (LSK) President Faith Odhiambo has called for the immediate arrest of a second police officer involved in the brutal assault and shooting of a face mask vendor during Tuesday’s protests in Nairobi’s Central Business District.
Speaking during an interview on Spice FM, Odhiambo condemned the actions of the two anti-riot officers, who were filmed cornering and beating the unarmed youth along Moi Avenue before one of them shot him at close range. The incident occurred amid ongoing protests demanding justice for Albert Ojwang’, who died in police custody earlier this month.
While the National Police Service (NPS) has confirmed the arrest of the officer who fired the fatal shot, Odhiambo insists that his colleague, who actively participated in the assault and fled the scene with him, must also be held accountable.
“It’s not just the shooter,” she stated. “His colleague was also right there and he is an accessory because you see them pushing the victim and then running away together. They are part and parcel and must be held accountable.”
Odhiambo further urged the NPS to publicly disclose the identity of the arrested officer, arguing that Kenyans had already shared details online and that transparency was necessary to build public trust.
“I’m waiting to see the statement where they name that particular police officer. Members of the public have already identified him and are calling him out,” she said.
She also put pressure on the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) to issue a comprehensive update on their investigation into the incident and outline any measures being taken against those involved.
The protest, initially peaceful and driven by youth-led demands for police reforms and the resignation of Deputy Inspector General Eliud Lagat, turned chaotic after suspected hired goons infiltrated the crowd.
According to Health Director-General Dr. Patrick Amoth, the injured vendor was rushed to Kenyatta National Hospital where he underwent emergency neurosurgery and remains in critical condition.
The shooting has sparked national outrage, with civil society groups, opposition leaders, and citizens demanding swift and decisive action against police brutality and impunity.