The family of Daniel Nderitu is in mourning—and demanding answers—after the 47-year-old father of four was reportedly shot dead by police in Nakuru’s London estate earlier this week.
According to witnesses, Nderitu was approached by police officers on Sunday during what locals described as a tense patrol. He allegedly resisted arrest after being accused of possessing marijuana. What happened next has shocked the quiet community.
“They said he had bhang,” said Patrick Kariuki, a neighbour who claims he saw the incident unfold. “When he asked what proof they had, they shot him in the back. Then they handcuffed him, fired in the air, and shot him again in the chest.”
Nderitu, a casual labourer in Nakuru’s mining sector, was the sole provider for his family. His death adds to the growing list of fatal encounters involving Kenyan police and civilians.
“He had lost so much—his wife in 2023 and one of his children last year,” said his sister, Njeri. “Now they’ve taken him too. For what? He didn’t deserve to die like that.”
A post-mortem is scheduled for Thursday, June 12, to officially determine the cause of death. Meanwhile, burial preparations are underway at the family’s rural home.
The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) confirmed it is investigating the incident. Four witnesses have already given statements. Officers have also been deployed in the area to prevent protests from escalating.
In a statement on Wednesday, IPOA said they “take any report of police misconduct seriously” and vowed to follow due process in this case.
Nderitu’s death comes amid growing pressure on Kenyan police forces to account for rising cases of alleged brutality. In recent months, similar incidents have triggered public outcry and calls for reform.
Residents say they are tired of being targeted. “We’re not criminals,” said Kariuki. “We’re just trying to live.”
No official police comment has been issued on the shooting, but sources within the local station said the officers involved have been identified and may face questioning.
For now, the family waits. Their grief is raw, but their message is clear: they want justice—not just for Nderitu, but for every life cut short without cause.
About the Author
