Kenyan citizens protest death of blogger in police custody, as police fire teargas
Protesters in Nairobi, Capital of Kenya on Tuesday stormed the major streets following the death of a blogger in police custody which cast a spotlight on alleged extrajudicial killings by security forces.
Penpushing reports that the 31-year-old blogger identified as Albert Ojwang, who is also teacher was declared dead earlier this month, just two days after he was arrested.
The witnesses reported that, the Kenyan police, however, fired tear gas on the protesters, hence, clashes broke out in downtown Nairobi as unidentified motorcyclists beat up protesters, dispersing them.
Penpushing further reports that as at the time of filing this report, the identities of the motorists could not be ascertain, however, Kenya chapter of the Amnesty International in a post on X, referred to the presence of dozens of motorbikes, with two hooded passengers whipping protesters and members of the public.
The Kenya’s police spokesperson could not be immediately reached for comment on the clashes, while the police were quoted earlier saying the blogger had committed suicide.
Penpushing also reports that the Kenya’s police chief later apologised after an independent autopsy found Ojwang’s wounds pointed to assault as the cause of death, while President William Ruto said Ojwang had died at the hands of the police which was heartbreaking and unacceptable.
The deceased it is recalled was arrested as part of an investigation triggered by a formal complaint by deputy police chief Eliud Lagat, according to the Independent Policing Oversight Authority watchdog.
Penpushing reports that the protest over Ojwang’s death reflect wider public concerns that nothing has changed one year after more than 60 people were killed during protests initially sparked by proposed tax increases.
FOOTNOTE: You want to share story with us? You want to advertise with us? You need publicity for product, or service, or event? Contact us on WhatsApp +2348073463653 or email penpushing@yahoo.com
