Watchman Shot Dead Outside Kenya Power Headquarters During Nairobi Protests

A security guard assigned to Kenya Power’s Stima Plaza in Nairobi was shot and killed on Wednesday, June 25, during protests by young Kenyans commemorating the first anniversary of the anti-finance bill demonstrations.

Kenya Power confirmed the incident in a statement, revealing that the incident took place at around 4:30 p.m. 

The guard, identified as Fred Wamale Wanyonyi, worked for Hatari Security and was on duty at the Kolobot Road entrance when the shooting occurred.

"We are deeply saddened to report that Mr. Fred Wamale Wanyonyi, a security guard stationed at our Stima Plaza headquarters, was fatally shot at the entrance of the building at 4:30 pm this evening during the ongoing protests," stated Kenya Power in part.

Kenya Police during a chaotic protest in Nairobi. /NEW YORK TIMES

"Mr. Wamale, an employee of Hatari Security, was on duty at the Kolobot Road entrance when the incident occurred."

He was rushed to Mama Lucy Kibaki Hospital, where he was pronounced dead on arrival. Kenya Power expressed regret over the incident and stated that it is working closely with investigative authorities to determine the circumstances surrounding the shooting.

"We regret the unfortunate death of Mr. Wamale and are working with the relevant investigative organs to unearth the circumstances under which the incident occurred. Our heartfelt condolences go out to his family, friends, and colleagues during this difficult time," added the statement.

The incident occurred amid a fresh wave of nationwide protests, as thousands marched to honour the victims of the deadly June 25, 2024, demonstrations.

In the wake of multiple reported casualties, there has been a growing outcry for police restraint and renewed calls for dialogue between the government and the public.

KNCHR Confirms 8 Shot Dead During Protests

Meanwhile, the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) has revealed data stating that eight people succumbed to gunshot wounds across six counties.

"The KNCHR has received reports of eight (8) fatalities. All deaths allegedly from gunshot wounds in six (6) different Counties, namely: two (2) in Machakos, two (2) in Makueni, one (1) in Nakuru, one (1) in Kiambu, one (1) in Uasin Gishu County and one (1) in Nyandarua. The right to life. The Commission condoles with families of the deceased," stated KNCHR in a statement.

Further, over four hundred (400) casualties have been reported, including demonstrators, police officers and journalists. "Most of them were treated and discharged, eighty-three (83) of them were referred for specialised treatment, and eight (8) with gunshot wounds," added KNCHR.

The rights body added that at least sixty-one (61) individuals have been detained at different police stations countrywide, most of them in Nairobi County. Further, KNCHR stated that there have been reported arrests which have not been booked in any police stations.

There was also widespread police deployment across various counties and allegations of excessive use of force, including the use of rubber bullets, live ammunition and water cannons, resulting in numerous injuries.

"The Commission received information of infiltration of the demonstrations by Criminal Elements and Destruction of Property. Credible reports of "hired goons" infiltrating protests in Eldoret, Mombasa, Nairobi, Nakuru, Nyeri, Kajiado and Kisumu. These groups have engaged in violence, looting and property destruction.

Protesters along Thika Road at Roasters on June 25, 2025. /BERTRAM HILL