By Grace Gilo
Kenyatta National Hospital has provided an update on the condition of a patient who was referred to the facility on the afternoon of Tuesday, 17th June 2025, after sustaining a gunshot wound during protests in Nairobi’s Central Business District (CBD).
The male patient, a trader operating within the CBD, arrived at the hospital as a referral at 3:16 PM.
In a statement from Dr. William Sigilai, the KNH CEO, it was noted that upon arrival at the Accident and Emergency Department, he was critically ill with a gunshot wound to the head, resulting in severe brain injury and excessive bleeding.
“The emergency care team led by the emergency physician, Dr. Janet Sugut, swung into action, stabilised his condition, and placed him on life support.
A CT scan of the brain confirmed the bullet struck the left side of his head. He was then taken to the operating theatre at around 8:50 pm, where a complex and delicate surgery was performed by a multidisciplinary team led by Consultant Neurosurgeon Dr. Sam Njiru.
This procedure lasted 2 hours and the bullet was successfully removed. The patient was subsequently transferred to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), where he remains on mechanical ventilation.
“While his condition is still critical, he is alive and under close, round-the-clock observation and care by our medical team,” stated the CEO.
Boniface Kariuki, the patient, was shot by police officers who were later interdicted and are currently being processed by the Homicide Team, DCI Headquarters, pending further action.
The two officers involved have been identified as Police Constable Klinzy Barasa Masinde and Police Constable Duncan Kiprono.
“In total, 16 patients were received at Kenyatta National Hospital as a result of the protest-related unrest,” he added.
According to the CEO, the injuries sustained by these patients ranged from gunshot wounds to blunt trauma. Of these, 7 patients were admitted for further management. 9 were treated and discharged, 2 have undergone surgery, and 4 more are scheduled for surgical procedures today.
One other patient remains unidentified, having sustained a skull fracture reportedly from an assault.
Dr. William Sigilai commended the swift actions of first responders and the public who ensured the timely referral of casualties to ΚΝΗ.
“Kenyatta National Hospital remains committed to providing the highest standard of emergency and trauma care,” he assured.
“Further updates will be provided as appropriate, with due regard to the privacy and dignity of the patients involved,” the KNH CEO said.