Karatina businessman shot dead by cop, Ipoa launches probe

A prominent Karatina businessman has been shot dead by a police officer, sparking community unrest.

George Matheri was allegedly shot in the head at close range on Sunday night at around 11pm by a police officer who was on patrol.

His killing sparked anger among residents, causing them to barricade the Nairobi-Karatina highway, disrupting traffic and vandalising property.

Witnesses said there was a brief confrontation between Matheri and the police officer that led to the killing.

Matheri’s wife, Ann Gathu, expressed disbelief and anguish over her husband’s death, insisting he did not deserve to be shot.

“I can't believe that my husband is no more, and I'm seeking justice for him. He didn't deserve to be shot. It would have been better if he was shot on the leg to give us a chance to solve the case while he is alive,” she said.

His father John Matheri called for accountability from the national government.

“It's my humble request to the government to follow up that case because recently, we've seen young people being killed. He was only forty years old,” he said.

Purity Mugo, a Karatina businesswoman, said Matheri was a young employer whose absence is deeply felt.

“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.

The Independent Policing Oversight Authority chairman Issack Hassan on Monday said the accused police officer has been arrested and detained, pending arraignment.

The authority has dispatched a Rapid Response Team from its Nyeri regional office to secure the scene, collect forensic and ballistic evidence and interview witnesses.

“Ipoa has so far seized the scene of the incident and is collecting crucial evidence for forensic and ballistic analysis,” Hassan said.

He urged members of the public who witnessed the killing to come forward with information.

The senior police command has pledged to support the investigation. Regional police commander Jasper Ombati told reporters that the service is committed to ensuring justice.

“We are going to do our part to ensure their loved one gets justice, and not only justice but also quick and in a timely manner,” he said.

 Ipoa and police appealed for calm in the area as forensic teams continue their work.