Jonah Kariuki, the father of Boniface Kariuki who was recently shot at close range by a police officer during Tuesday’s demonstrations in Nairobi, has opened up about the painful experience his family is going through.
While already struggling to deal with his son’s critical condition and a rising hospital bill, Jonah became a victim of a heartless scam that left him even more devastated.
In a press briefing, he explained how scammers took advantage of his situation and stole over Ksh.200,000 from him. According to Jonah, the scammers claimed they could help settle part of Boniface’s medical bill and asked him to send Ksh.20,000 for registration purposes.
Trusting them and desperate for help, Jonah gave out his personal and bank information. Instead of helping him, the scammers accessed his bank account and stole a total of Ksh.200,500.
After realizing he had been conned, Jonah rushed to file a report at the police station, and investigations are now ongoing to identify and arrest those responsible.
Speaking to the press, Jonah said in Kiswahili, “Kuna mtu alikuwa ameniambia nimpee Ksh.20,000 atanisaidia kwa bill lakini mwenye alituma akatuma Ksh.200,500. Nimechukua OB.” He expressed frustration that people could take advantage of someone in pain for personal gain.
Meanwhile, Boniface’s condition remains critical. He is currently under life support at Kenyatta National Hospital.
The family’s spokesperson, Emily Wanjiru, gave an update on his health, saying he had undergone two surgeries to remove a bullet from his head and is being monitored closely at the Intensive Care Unit.
She also explained that his left side is permanently damaged and his brain activity is extremely low. According to her, the normal brain function reading is 15/15, but Boniface’s is now at 2/15, indicating severe brain trauma.
Emily shared that although there had been a slight change in his condition, he still cannot speak and the family is unsure about what the future holds for him.
The medical expenses are also becoming too much for the family to handle. Jonah said the preliminary bill was already at Ksh.1 million and continues to rise every day.
Despite the severity of Boniface’s condition and the clear involvement of police officers, the family has not been contacted by any investigative agencies, including the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA).
Feeling neglected by the justice system, they have now decided to hire a lawyer to push for accountability.
They are calling on the courts to ensure justice is served and that those responsible are punished for the shooting.
The Kariuki family is still in pain, not only because of their son’s medical crisis but also due to the betrayal they experienced from people who pretended to help.
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