"We're investigating": 3 injured after Governor Nassir's security opens fire
This story has significance for readers across Kenya and beyond.
- Three people were injured after gunfire erupted during a public event attended by Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir
- Witnesses claimed the shooting followed chants directed at the governor as youths moved towards him
- Police and IPOA have been urged to investigate the incident and establish who fired the shots
Three people were injured after security officers attached to Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir allegedly opened fire during a public event at Bomu Stadium in Changamwe on Friday afternoon.
The incident occurred during a forum organised under the Mombasa County Revolving Fund’s “Biashara Mtaani” programme, which targets residents of Changamwe and Jomvu sub-counties.
Mombasa County Police Commander Stella Cherono confirmed that officers had launched investigations into the shooting and appealed to witnesses and other people with relevant information to come forward.
“We are investigating a case where three people were shot and injured at Bomu Stadium. We are asking all interested parties to record statements as investigations continue,” Cherono said.
The three victims, identified as youths, sustained gunshot wounds and were initially taken to a nearby health facility. Some were later transferred to Coast General Teaching and Referral Hospital for specialised treatment.
What triggered the Mombasa shooting?
Witnesses claimed the incident began when a group of youths moved towards the governor while chanting “Wantam”, a slogan derived from “one term” that has increasingly featured in political gatherings.
According to the witnesses, members of the governor’s security detail intervened before several shots were fired.
An official who attended the event said police officers later recovered several spent cartridges from the scene.
“The police moved in and collected a number of used cartridges. One of the youths was shot three times in the leg and was rushed to a nearby hospital before being referred to Coast General Hospital,” the official said.
The circumstances that led to the shooting, including who fired the shots, remained under investigation.
Human rights activist demands probe
Human rights activist Francis Auma condemned the reported shooting and called for an independent investigation into the alleged use of firearms against civilians.
“Public gatherings and political activity must not result in bloodshed,” Auma said.
He called on the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) to establish who fired the shots, while urging investigators to secure evidence and protect witnesses who may assist with the inquiry.
Auma also urged the county government to take responsibility for the medical expenses of those injured and ensure that anyone found culpable is held accountable.
Police said investigations were ongoing as officers worked to establish what triggered the incident and identify those responsible.
Despite the shooting, Governor Nassir reportedly continued with the scheduled event after additional police officers were deployed to reinforce his security detail.
Source: TUKO.co.ke
Reporting originally appeared via TUKO. Read the full source for additional context.