Nanyuki Residents Threaten Tuesday Protests Over Death of Julia Njoki
Nanyuki — Residents of Nanyuki have issued a stern warning to authorities, threatening to take to the streets on Tuesday, July 15, over the mysterious death of 24-year-old Julia Njoki while in police custody.
Njoki was reportedly arrested on the night of Monday, July 7, while returning home after participating in the nationwide Saba Saba Day demonstrations. Her condition deteriorated while in detention, and she died days later under unclear circumstances.
Speaking during a press briefing on Saturday, July 12, aggrieved residents accused the police of using excessive force and neglecting Njoki’s medical needs. Eyewitnesses and family members claim she was physically assaulted while in custody.
“The information we have is that the girl was beaten inside the cell. She was struck with a blunt object. She collapsed and told the officers she wasn’t feeling well, but they ignored her,” one resident said.
According to the family, Njoki was arraigned in court the following day and granted a KSh 50,000 bond. Unable to raise the bond amount, she was remanded at the Nanyuki GK Prison, where it is believed she sustained the fatal injuries.
Attempts to save her life came too late. She was rushed to the Nanyuki Teaching and Referral Hospital but was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.
Community members have vowed to stage mass protests unless the government intervenes and brings those responsible to justice. “We want to know who beat her, why she wasn’t treated in time, and why nobody is being held accountable,” said another protester.
In addition to demanding justice for Njoki, the protesters are also calling for answers in the death of 17-year-old Thomas Gachara, a Form Three student reportedly shot by police during the Saba Saba protests. Viral footage shows a uniformed officer allegedly aiming and firing at a youth believed to be Gachara, who fell immediately and died on the spot.
Tensions remain high in Nanyuki and surrounding regions, as anger over police brutality and delayed justice continues to fuel civil unrest.
In other news:Equity Bank Announces Job Opportunities with July Deadlines
Nanyuki Residents Threaten Tuesday Protests Over Death of Julia Njoki