Guns, Masks, and Terror: Wanjigi Family Breaks Silence on Police Raid

The Nairobi residence of businessman Jimi Wanjigi was subjected to an overnight raid by armed police, leading to allegations of severe misconduct and property damage.

The incident, which took place in the affluent Muthaiga estate, has been described by the family as even more brutal than a previous police incursion into their home. The ordeal reportedly began when law enforcement officials forcibly entered the premises, physically assaulting family members and compelling them to acquiesce to a search of the property. Maina, Mr. Wanjigi's son, recounts the harrowing experience, stating that they had no alternative but to comply with the officers' demands. The initial search, which lasted until approximately 4 am, was thought to have concluded the operation.

However, the family's respite was short-lived. At around 6 am, masked individuals returned, rousing the family from their beds to conduct a second search. This subsequent inspection was carried out in darkness after the electricity supply was interrupted, leaving the family perplexed about the necessity of two distinct searches within such a short timeframe. Willis Ochieng, the family's legal representative, condemns the police actions as unlawful. During the initial search, law enforcement reportedly confiscated various electronic devices and personal items.

The family's bewilderment intensified when they were awakened by armed individuals wearing balaclavas and wielding assault rifles. These men allegedly forced the family out of their rooms at gunpoint, ransacking their belongings under the guise of conducting another search. Maina expresses his disbelief at the situation, questioning how the same police with whom they had cooperated throughout the night could return in such a manner without involving the family. The morning search reportedly resulted in the seizure of additional valuables, including files and money from Mr Wanjigi's vehicle.

The family's lawyer denounces these actions, arguing that a legitimate police operation would have adhered to proper procedures. Mr. Wanjigi's whereabouts remain unknown since the raid, and the acting Inspector General of Police has issued an order for him to surrender at any police station. This incident has ignited public outrage and raised questions about the motivations behind the police actions. Jimi Wanjigi, a prominent figure in business and politics, has been an outspoken critic of the Kenya Kwanza regime, leading his family to believe that the raid was politically motivated and intended to silence his dissent.

The incident has also drawn attention to broader concerns regarding police brutality and abuse of power in Kenya. Human rights organizations have condemned the raid, calling for an independent investigation into the conduct of law enforcement officials. They argue that such actions undermine the rule of law and erode public trust in law enforcement agencies. This raid occurred against the backdrop of ongoing protests in Nairobi under the "Nane Nane" movement, which demanded significant governmental reforms.

Demonstrators have expressed frustration with the administration's handling of economic challenges and corruption, calling for the president's resignation. The movement has highlighted pervasive corruption within the government and demanded accountability from public officials.