More time behind bars for police officers detained over shooting death that sparked Nakuru protests

Seven police officers linked to shooting death of a man in Nakuru last week have been detained for seven more days. They are suspected of involvement in the killing of Daniel Nderitu, a resident of London Estate, which sparked protests shortly after.

On Tuesday, Senior Magistrate Cynthia Muhoro directed that the seven — Zicasio Njue, Eric Mwangi, John Kihara, Naftali Gitonga, Ephantus Njeru, Marceler Tanui and Isaac Anampiu — will remain in custody for seven more days pending the conclusion of investigations by the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (Ipoa). 

They are being held at Menengai Police Station in Rongai. 

The shooting occurred during a confrontation between residents and police officers who had gone to make arrests over an alleged drug-peddling case.

Nakuru County Police Commander Michael Mwaura said Mr Nderitu was shot in the mouth after he resisted boarding a police Land Cruiser following his arrest. An officer was reportedly injured during the altercation.

When the suspects were arraigned on Wednesday last week, prosecution counsel Emma Okok applied for their continued detention for seven days.

Ms Okok argued that detectives had not yet finalised investigations including recording statements from key witnesses, obtaining a ballistic examination report from the Government Chemist and addressing concerns over safety of the suspects.

However, the defence team opposed the application terming it an abuse of court process and a violation of the officers’ rights and freedoms.

Lawyer David Mong’eri accused the prosecution of delaying the case, saying his clients had already been in custody long enough for investigations to be completed.

He also dismissed the issue of their safety arguing that as trained officers, they are capable of protecting themselves.

The case will be mentioned on June 24, 2025.

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