Garissa Protests Called Off After Violence as Probe Intensifies Into Taxi Driver’s Killing
Planned demonstrations in Garissa County have been suspended after turning destructive, with leaders urging calm as investigations into the fatal shooting of a 24-year-old taxi driver gather pace.
Garissa County Commissioner Mohamed Mwabudzo confirmed that the decision to halt the protests was reached after sections of demonstrators engaged in vandalism and destruction of property. He assured residents that the government remains committed to ensuring justice is served.
“The suspect will be arrested, and due process will be followed,” Mwabudzo stated, calling on the public to allow investigations to proceed without interference.
Religious leaders across the county also appealed for restraint, warning against attempts to politicize or tribalize the incident. Led by Sheikh Hassan Abdi of SUPKEM, the clerics strongly condemned the killing of Aden Mohamed Hassan, who was allegedly shot by an officer from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI).
“We condemn this killing in the strongest terms. Crime has no tribe or religion. If the officer is culpable, they must be arrested and prosecuted so justice can prevail,” Sheikh Hassan said.
The leaders further urged young people to avoid further demonstrations, noting that while the initial protests were meant to demand justice, some individuals exploited the situation to loot businesses and attack traders.
Meanwhile, the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has launched formal investigations into the incident, which occurred in the early hours of April 21, 2026, near the Modika Barrier.
According to IPOA, preliminary findings indicate that the victim was shot at around 2:20 a.m. after responding to a distress call from a friend who had been arrested by DCI officers in Balambala. During the incident, his vehicle was reportedly damaged, and he sustained a fatal gunshot wound to the head.
Authorities say investigations are ongoing, with assurances that those responsible will be held accountable as the region calls for calm and justice.
