Hours after concerns arose on Tuesday night, June 25, following reports and viral videos suggesting a shootout in Githurai 45, Kiambu County, amidst ongoing anti-Finance Bill protests, the Officer Commanding the area police station has addressed the issue.
Nelson Omolo, Officer Commanding Station (OCS) of Githurai Mwiki, dismissed the claims in an interview with Kenyans.co.ke.
He clarified that during the alleged incident, military personnel were merely returning to their barracks in Kahawa.
Omolo emphasized that no reports of a shootout had been received from local residents.
“I am the primary contact for such matters, and to date, no reports of gunfire have been formally communicated to us. It was simply routine military movement,” stated Omolo.
According to eyewitness accounts and circulating videos, heavy gunfire erupted along Thika Highway in Githurai 45, resulting in multiple casualties.
Witnesses reported scenes of panic as individuals sought safety on alternative Murram roads within nearby estates to evade the alleged shooters.
Despite these accounts, the OCS maintains that the situation was misinterpreted.
Efforts by one of the media houses to obtain a response from the OCS of Githurai 44 regarding the reported incident yielded no comment.
However, tenants residing near Githurai 45 recounted hearing intense gunfire starting around 8 PM.
One resident attributed the escalation to protestors blocking the highway, prompting a response from law enforcement.
These claims are bolstered by photographic evidence showing individuals with gunshot wounds receiving treatment at various local medical facilities.
The discrepancy between official statements and eyewitness reports has fueled confusion and concern among residents.
The alleged shootout adds another layer of tension to the already volatile situation surrounding the anti-Finance Bill protests.
The protests, which have been marked by widespread public outcry against the proposed legislation, have seen clashes between demonstrators and police in various parts of the country.
The Finance Bill 2024, which introduces new taxes, has been criticized for its potential to increase the financial burden on already struggling Kenyans.
As the investigation into the Githurai 45 incident continues, calls for clarity and accountability are mounting.
Community leaders and civil society organizations are urging authorities to conduct a thorough and transparent inquiry to determine the facts and address any misconduct.
The situation underscores the broader challenges faced by the government in managing public dissent and maintaining order.
The anti-Finance Bill protests reflect deep-seated frustrations with economic policies and governance, and incidents like the alleged shootout in Githurai 45 highlight the potential for escalation and violence.
The controversy over the reported shootout in Githurai 45 during the anti-Finance Bill protests has raised significant concerns and questions.
The conflicting accounts between official statements and eyewitness reports underline the need for a comprehensive investigation to ensure transparency and justice.
As the protests continue, the government must navigate these challenges with a focus on addressing the root causes of public discontent and ensuring the safety and rights of all citizens.
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