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Three shot as police seal off Jacaranda grounds – PHOTOS

By DAVID MWERE November 28th, 2017 2 min read

Three people were shot on Tuesday as police moved to stop a planned National Super Alliance (Nasa) prayer rally for victims of police brutality at Jacaranda grounds in Embakasi, Nairobi.

The officers in full anti-riot gear on Tuesday threw teargas everywhere, including residential estates, and beat up whoever they came across.

They started by sealing off the venue before unleashing their arsenal on a group of youths who were marching to the grounds.

Even before the running battles started, a close look at the venue indicated that the requiem mass for victims of police brutality, which was to be led by Mr Raila Odinga, was doomed.

DUMPED RAW SEWAGE

On the night before the rally, unknown people ferried and dumped raw sewage on the spot where dais was to be erected.

Nasa has organised a memorial to remember victims of police brutality during the electioneering period.

The clash between police and Nasa supporters comes after Nairobi County Police Commander Japhet Koome warned the opposition against holding the meeting.

PHOTO | DAVID MWERE
PHOTO | DAVID MWERE

On Sunday, Mr Koome denied knowledge of the Nasa event and, a day later, vowed not to allow it, saying the only major public event that would take place in Nairobi would be President Kenyatta’s swearing-in.

But Nasa co-principal Moses Wetang’ula on Monday dismissed Mr Koome’s claims.

“We are planning prayers for our supporters who were shot dead during protests. We will also fundraise for the victims’ families so that they can hold a befitting send-off for their loved ones,” Mr Wetang’ula said.

MEMORIAL SERVICES

The Jacaranda meeting was a culmination of a series of memorial services held in other parts of the country.

Nasa claims that 54 people have been killed by police between November 17 and 21.

The figure, according to the coalition, includes 18 who were killed on November 17 as police tried to block supporters from accessing Uhuru Park for a public rally.

They were welcoming Mr Odinga from a 10-day US tour.