POLICE OFFICER PLEADS NOT GUILTY TO THE MURDER OF MASK VENDOR BONIFACE KARIUKI

Police Constable Klinzy Masinde Barasa has pleaded not guilty to the murder of 22-year-old mask vendor Boniface Kariuki Mwangi, who was shot dead during protests outside Imenti House in Nairobi's Central Business District on June 17.
Appearing before Justice Kimondo Kanyi at the Milimani Law Courts, Barasa denied the charge after a psychiatric report confirmed he was fit to stand trial. The report, prepared by government psychiatrist Dr. Priscilla Makau, cleared the way for formal proceedings to begin.
The prosecution, led by State Counsel Vincent Monda, strongly opposed the officer’s release on bail, arguing that Barasa could intimidate witnesses—including fellow officers—and posed a flight risk due to his position in the police service.
Justice Kimondo ordered Barasa to be remanded at Industrial Area Prison until August 19, when the court will hear arguments on whether he should be released on bond.
The killing of Kariuki sparked public outrage after video footage circulated online, appearing to show a police officer shooting him at close range during protests against extrajudicial killings. Another officer arrested alongside Barasa, Duncan Kiprono, was later released after no charges were brought against him.
The case continues to draw national attention amid growing calls for police accountability.