K24 journalist Catherine Wanjeri Kariuki was shot and injured by police while covering anti-government protests in Nakuru on Tuesday, July 16, 2024.
Wanjeri sustained four gunshot wounds to her thigh and was rushed to Valley Hospital for treatment.
Wanjeri was shot while standing outside a local bank during the protests.
She is currently undergoing surgery to remove three bullets lodged in her thigh.
The incident occurred shortly after Wanjeri was captured on video helping a police officer with toothpaste, which she said reduces the effects of teargas.
Wanjeri expressed shock at the turn of events, stating she had left for work as usual, expecting to return home in the evening.
She was not alone when the shooting occurred, as other journalists were present. Wanjeri suspects she may have been deliberately targeted by the police.
Many Kenyans have expressed sympathy for Wanjeri, emphasizing the importance of journalists being able to work without fear of targeting.
The Association of Media Women in Kenya (AMWIK) strongly condemned the police brutality, calling it a “blatant assault on freedom of the press.”
The Media Owners Association of Kenya has condemned the increased attacks on journalists covering protests.
This incident is part of a concerning trend of journalists being attacked by police while on duty.
Several other journalists have reportedly sustained critical injuries during recent protests.
Media organizations and human rights groups are calling for an end to attacks on journalists and for the protection of press freedom in Kenya.
Updates on Wanjeri’s condition and any investigations into the shooting will be provided as more information becomes available.