Nairobi, Kenya — Kenyan police have arrested a 19-year-old motorist who was filmed
brutally assaulting a traffic officer on a busy road in Nairobi. The incident, captured on
video and widely circulated on social media, has sparked public outrage and an unusual
wave of sympathy for law enforcement in a country where police often face criticism for
corruption and brutality.
The video shows the young man repeatedly punching and kicking the traffic officer,
identified as Patrick Ogendo, even after he had fallen to the ground. Bystanders intervened,
allowing the officer to escape further harm, while the assailant fled the scene.
According to a police report, the confrontation began when Officer Ogendo stopped the
motorist for making an illegal U-turn, which obstructed other vehicles. The officer entered
the vehicle and instructed the driver to proceed to a nearby police station. During the drive,
the motorist allegedly stopped abruptly, produced a sword from under the seat, and
attacked Ogendo.
“The officer jumped out of the vehicle for his safety, but the driver pursued him with blows
and kicks,” the police statement detailed. It also noted that the driver absconded with a
police pocket phone battery.
Ogendo received first aid at a local health center before being transferred to a hospital for
further treatment. Authorities arrested an alleged accomplice at the scene, and a search
was launched for the primary suspect, who was later apprehended.
The attack has been widely condemned across social and political spheres. Nairobi’s
Governor, Johnson Sakaja, called the incident “unacceptable” and emphasized the need
for respect towards law enforcement officers.
“The law must take its course,” Governor Sakaja stated. “Such acts of violence against our
police officers will not be tolerated.”
The case continues to develop as investigators seek to bring all involved parties to justice.
© All East Africa
