In a tragic event at Kiandai shopping centre in Gichugu, Kirinyaga County, a 19-year-old man named Derrick Gachoki was fatally shot by a police officer from Kianyaga police station. The officer responsible for the shooting has been arrested and is currently in custody while investigations are ongoing.
The incident has incited significant outrage in the local community. Distressed family members, led by Derrick’s aunt Sicily Wangu, and Kiandai residents stormed the Kianyaga police station, demanding answers. Wangu expressed the family’s anguish, saying, “We have been told Derrick was killed by police officers from this station, and we want to know why.”
Jane Muthoni, Derrick’s grandmother, was inconsolable upon seeing her grandson’s body. She had been caring for Derrick since his mother died in 2008 and was deeply saddened and confused by the loss of his life. “Derrick Gachoki completed form four last year and I had been taking care of him. Why have they decided to take his life?” Muthoni questioned.
Kirinyaga Police Commander Andrew Naibei confirmed the arrest of a female police officer from Kianyaga police station in connection with the shooting. Naibei assured the public that a thorough investigation is underway to ensure justice for Derrick’s family. He extended condolences to the family, acknowledging the unfortunate nature of the incident.
According to Derrick’s friend, Alex Njeru, the shooting occurred around 11 a.m. while they were playing pool at the Kiandai shopping centre. Some individuals fled when the police arrived, but Derrick was fatally shot, and his body was taken to Kerugoya Mortuary without notifying his family, which further exacerbated their distress.
Baragwi MCA David Mathenge demanded justice for Derrick, questioning the legality of playing pool and condemning the unnecessary loss of a young life. He expressed relief that the officer responsible had been arrested but emphasized the community’s demand for justice for Derrick Gachoki. Mathenge remarked, “We want to know whether playing pool is illegal in my ward. He completed his secondary education the other day. Why take the life of a young person? We are happy the police officer known as Ann has been arrested, but we still demand justice for Derrick.”
