A deeply disturbing video showing police officers dragging a nearly naked man—allegedly after shooting him—has ignited a firestorm of anger across Kenya. The footage, which surfaced in the aftermath of the Saba Saba protests on July 7, has been widely circulated online, prompting prominent public figures, including comedian Mulamwah and several other celebrities, to speak out against what many are calling an act of inhumane brutality.
A Shocking Scene
The video, believed to have been taken during the nationwide Saba Saba demonstrations, shows three armed police officers dragging a limp man, stripped to his undergarments, across the ground toward a station. It remains unclear whether the man was already dead or critically injured at the time.
The scene has sparked outrage online, with Kenyans and public figures condemning the apparent lack of dignity, restraint, or medical attention afforded to the man.
Celebrities React: “This Is Heartbreaking”
Mulamwah, one of Kenya’s most followed comedians, reposted the video and simply described it as “heartbreaking,” capturing the national mood of grief and disbelief.
Fellow entertainer Oga Obinna expressed his frustration and sadness, stating:
“What is happening to my country? The ones who should protect us are the ones harming and killing us… When will it be enough?”
Singer Okello Max pointed to a pattern of cover-ups in police misconduct cases, writing:
“Kisha watasema he broke into station to steal a gun.”
(“Then they’ll say he broke into the station to steal a gun.”)
Content creator Lydia Wanjiru could only plead:
“God please do something. ANYTHING.”
DJ Double Trouble, reflecting the fatigue many Kenyans feel from a week of shocking news, added:
“Yaani kuingia online hizi wiki lazima upigwe na shock.”
(“This week, every time you go online, you’re hit with shock.”)
Public Condemnation Grows
The video has galvanized a massive online response, with ordinary citizens joining celebrities in expressing disgust.
“They can’t even accord him the dignity of carrying him. This is a crime against humanity.” – @amymuraguri
“Even wild animals behave better.” – @thee_beast3
Calls for accountability are growing louder, with Kenyans demanding the identities of the officers involved and an immediate independent investigation into the incident.
Saba Saba Violence: A Larger Crisis
The video emerged during a volatile Saba Saba Day, when protests erupted across major cities including Nairobi, Kisumu, Nakuru, Kiambu, and Meru. The demonstrations, sparked by the recent police custody death of blogger and teacher Albert Ojwang, quickly turned violent. At least 10 people were confirmed dead, with scores injured as police clashed with demonstrators.
The footage has intensified scrutiny on police conduct, already under fire for use of live ammunition, tear gas, and plain-clothed operatives during the protests.
A Moment of Reckoning
Human rights organizations have condemned the video as evidence of systemic abuse and are demanding swift action. Civil society leaders warn that such actions, if left unpunished, could further alienate a disillusioned public—particularly the youth, who were at the forefront of the protests.
The National Police Service has not yet issued a statement regarding the specific video, but pressure is mounting from both local and international observers for a transparent response.
Conclusion: A Nation Demands Answers
The graphic image of a man, nearly naked and dragged like cargo by state agents, has become a symbol of a deeper problem facing Kenya: the urgent need for police accountability and the protection of human rights.
As voices from the entertainment industry, civil society, and the general public unite in outrage, the government’s next move will be closely watched. For many Kenyans, this is more than just a viral video—it is a painful reminder of the cost of silence and the price of impunity.
