DusitD2 Hero Who Confronted Terror Kills Self After Losing Mother

General Service Unit (GSU) officer Joseph Azuza Chama tragically ended his own life after his mother's passing.

Azuza, lauded for his heroism during the DusitD2 attack, succumbed to overwhelming grief following the death of her mother Mary Anael Chama on March 5, 2024. Azuza's bravery during the 2019 DusitD2 siege was widely recognized. He confronted armed terrorists, saving countless lives and earning praise from colleagues and the public alike. President Uhuru Kenyatta commended Azuza and his fellow GSU officers for their vital role in neutralizing the attackers.

Despite his battlefield courage, Azuza was unable to cope with the loss of his mother, who passed away after a long illness. The depth of Azuza's grief became tragically evident on the day he visited Kenyatta Funeral Services to pay his last respects. Unable to view his mother's body due to the facility's policy against Sunday viewings, Azuza became overwhelmed. In a desperate act, he jumped out of a moving taxi near Muthaiga on Thika Road. Though he survived the initial fall, he was struck by oncoming traffic, succumbing to his injuries.

Azuza's companions in the taxi including his brother and a PAG priest revealed that he exhibited signs of distress throughout the journey from the funeral home to their destination. Despite their efforts, Azuza's grief culminated in the tragic accident. Those who knew Azuza speak of the profound bond he shared with his mother. His close friend Jeff Makalua Otieno describes Mary Chama as Azuza's best friend, emphasizing the immense void her death left behind. Otieno expresses his condolences for the loss of both mother and son. Azuza's colleagues recognise that even the strongest individuals can be vulnerable to grief.

As a respected officer and leader, Azuza was admired for his dependability and strength. He began his career in 1998 with the Red Berets FC, joining the police force a year later. His dedication and discipline led him to captain the Red Berets until their relegation. Azuza's commitment to duty was further demonstrated during the DusitD2 attack. He and other security forces tirelessly contained the Al-Shabaab assault for 19 hours, a harrowing experience that claimed 21 lives. Following this incident, Azuza served with distinction as a security officer for the United Nations. Azuza and his mother were laid to rest on Saturday.