The National Police Service (NPS) has distanced itself from the tragic death of 24-year-old Juliet Wangai Kariuki, who died in remand at Nanyuki GK Prison after being arrested during the Saba Saba protests.
In a statement issued Monday, NPS spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga dismissed reports linking the police to the incident, saying no official complaint had been filed implicating officers in any wrongdoing.
“To date, no formal complaint has been recorded alleging any misconduct, whether by commission or omission,” Nyaga said, addressing growing public concern over the case.
Nyaga emphasized that the police are not evading accountability and noted that oversight agencies would carry out “swift, transparent, and credible investigations” into the circumstances leading to Wangai’s death.
Wangai was among 126 individuals arrested in Nanyuki on July 7, 2025, amid nationwide demonstrations marking Saba Saba Day. She was arraigned the following day at the Nanyuki Law Courts, where she, along with others, faced charges of malicious damage to property under Section 339(1) of the Penal Code. All pleaded not guilty and were either granted cash bail of Sh50,000 or remanded to custody.
According to the police, Wangai appeared to be “in good health” at the time of arraignment. However, her family has since revealed that they were unable to raise the bail amount, which led to her continued detention.
The incident has sparked outrage in Nanyuki, where protests broke out on Monday demanding justice and full disclosure from authorities. Anti-riot police were deployed to maintain calm in key parts of the town.
Human rights groups and civil society organizations have condemned the incident and called for a thorough investigation into the handling of Wangai’s arrest, detention, and death.
Eyewitnesses claim that Wangai had not been actively participating in the protests and was arrested while on her way home.
As investigations unfold, pressure continues to mount on both the police and prison authorities to explain what happened and to ensure that justice is not only done, but seen to be done.
