Prominent businessman shot dead by cop
A well-known businessman from Karatina has been shot and killed by a police officer, igniting unrest in the community.
George Matheri was reportedly shot in the head at close range on Sunday night around 11 PM by an officer who was on patrol.
His death has fueled anger among local residents, leading them to block the Nairobi-Karatina highway, causing traffic disruptions and property damage.
Witnesses reported a brief altercation between Matheri and the police officer that resulted in the shooting.
Matheri’s wife, Ann Gathu, was in shock and grief over her husband’s death, firmly stating that he didn’t deserve to be shot.
“I can’t believe my husband is gone, and I’m fighting for justice for him. He didn’t deserve this. It would have been better if he had been shot in the leg so we could have had a chance to resolve things while he was still alive,” she shared.
His father, John Matheri, is calling for accountability from the national government.
“I humbly urge the government to investigate this case because we’ve seen too many young people being killed lately. He was only forty years old,” he said.
Purity Mugo, a businesswoman from Karatina, mentioned that Matheri was a young employer, and his absence is profoundly felt in the community.
“He is a young man who has employed many people. Since the incident, no government official has talked about George’s [Matheri] murder,” she said.
On Monday, Issack Hassan, the chairman of the Independent Policing Oversight Authority, announced that the police officer accused in the case has been arrested and is currently in custody, awaiting arraignment.
The authority has sent a Rapid Response Team from its Nyeri regional office to secure the area, gather forensic and ballistic evidence, and interview witnesses.
“Ipoa has taken control of the scene and is in the process of collecting vital evidence for forensic and ballistic analysis,” Hassan stated.
He called on anyone who saw the tragic event to step forward and share what they know.
The senior police leadership has promised to back the investigation. Regional police commander Jasper Ombati shared with reporters that the department is dedicated to making sure justice is served.
“We’re committed to doing everything we can to ensure that their loved one receives justice, and not just any justice, but swift and timely justice,” he stated.
Ipoa and police appealed for calm in the area as forensic teams continue their work.
Prominent businessman shot dead by cop
