A 19-year-old motorist has been arrested by Kenyan police following a disturbing incident where he was filmed assaulting a traffic policeman on a road in Nairobi, the capital city.
The video, which has circulated widely, shows the young man viciously attacking the officer with punches and kicks to the head, even after the policeman falls to the ground. The motorist managed to escape after bystanders intervened to help the officer.
This incident has sparked an unusual wave of sympathy for the police, who are often criticized for their perceived brutality and involvement in bribery.
A police report indicates that the man was initially stopped for making a U-turn on a busy road, which obstructed other motorists. Officer Patrick Ogendo then entered the vehicle and instructed the motorist to drive to a nearby police station.
While on the way, “the driver suddenly stopped and drew a sword under the seat”.
“The officer jumped out of the vehicle for his safety and the driver followed him with blows and kicks,” the statement added.
According to reports, the driver also stole a police pocket phone battery during the altercation. The injured policeman received immediate first aid at a nearby health center before being transferred to a hospital for further treatment.
Kenyans hawaogopi hata polisi. Traffic Police disciplined by localman pic.twitter.com/xAO1gr99Jw
— Goddie (@Goddie_Ke) June 2, 2024
Following the incident, an alleged accomplice of the suspect was apprehended at the scene. A police team was quickly mobilized to search for the main perpetrator of the attack.
The assault has sparked widespread condemnation, with many denouncing the violence as unacceptable. The suspect was later arrested at his residence in the capital on Sunday evening.
Vitalis Otieno, the head of traffic in Nairobi, stated to local media that the suspect will face multiple charges, including attempted murder.
Some X users, on the other hand, have expressed their displeasure against the unjust system, where police officers go scot free after assaulting citizens.
Viewer discretion is advised
We never forget the Kenyan police are never accountable.
Were these ones prosecuted?
pic.twitter.com/BZVnE8rYiX— Arnold (@arnoldi254) June 3, 2024
Kenyans raise questions as to why Ian Njoroge receives a different treatment but when the police assault civilians it’s not taken seriously. Watch👇 pic.twitter.com/e77WobjPzb
— The Nairobi Times (@TheNairobiTimez) June 3, 2024