Reporter Shot by Police in Nakuru Now Targeted with Threatening Calls
In a chilling turn of events, Catherine Wanjeri Kariuki, a Kameme TV reporter who was shot three times while covering anti-government protests in Nakuru, has reported receiving life-threatening calls.
The Mediamax Limited journalist, still recovering from surgery to remove three rubber bullets, filed a police report in Nakuru after the alarming threats, which she believes are tied to her pursuit of justice against the police officer responsible for her shooting.
Wanjeri, who was shot while wearing a jacket clearly marked “PRESS,” expressed deep concern for her safety, stating, “I do not feel safe in Nakuru or anywhere else in the country.” She further revealed that the threats came shortly after she returned to Nakuru for a doctor’s appointment, adding to her growing fears.
The journalist’s ordeal began when she was shot by a police officer while covering protests, despite taking measures to protect herself, including wearing press identification. Wanjeri shared that the situation has taken a toll on her, with the shooter still at large and possibly enjoying protection within the National Police Service. “The person who shot me is still out there, still working, and we don’t even know what kind of powers they have,” she lamented.
Wanjeri’s fears have pushed her to consider abandoning her pursuit of justice, citing the emotional and physical toll it has taken on her and her family. “I’m just a mere journalist, I have no protection at all so I don’t feel safe,” she stated, underscoring the vulnerability she feels as she continues her fight for justice.
Since the shooting, Wanjeri has resorted to ignoring calls from unfamiliar numbers, worried about further threats. Reflecting on the day of the incident, she recalled, “I left my house at around 1:30 pm thinking that I’m going to cover protests and go back home, little did I know that I would end up in hospital with stitches on my thigh.”
As the investigation drags on, Wanjeri’s fears grow, particularly as this is not the first time she has faced police brutality. She recounted being hit by a tear gas canister on the same leg where she was later shot, highlighting a disturbing pattern of targeted violence.
Wanjeri’s case raises serious concerns about press freedom and the safety of journalists in Kenya, especially those who dare to report on contentious issues. Her story serves as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by journalists who put themselves on the frontlines to keep the public informed.
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Reporter Shot by Police in Nakuru Now Targeted with Threatening Calls