Welcome to Kenya, where a police officer can be filmed shooting a protester, where phone signals place him at the scene of the crime, and still the truth is denied.
This is the story of Isaiah Murangiri Ndumba, the policeman linked to the death of young activist Rex Masai.
Rex was shot during the Gen Z protests in June 2024. On that day, many young people filled the streets to say no to the Finance Bill.
More than sixty people lost their lives, and property worth billions was destroyed. Families are still grieving, and Rex has become a symbol of that painful moment.
In court, a Safaricom staff member named Zachariah Kingori explained that signals from Murangiri’s phone showed he was in Nairobi’s Central Business District when Rex was killed.
A photogrid image bearing photos of the late Rex Masai and a civilian cop firing. Photo: Citizen TV Kenya Source: Facebook
The signals placed the phone at St Elis House, Mama Ngina Street and the Kencom area. These are the same places where protesters had gathered and where Rex was shot.
The court was also told that the Independent Police Oversight Authority had requested Safaricom to track the officer’s phone on June 18 and June 20. The data confirmed his cellphone was moving within the city centre on the day Rex was shot. This is strong evidence that he was present in the area.
Another expert, Alex Mwandawiro, also gave evidence. He is a ballistic expert and told the court that he had tested several guns and bullets connected to the case. This adds to the questions around who really fired the shot that ended Rex’s life.
A high-resolution graphic showing the late Rex Masai’s photo combined with yellow crime scene tape and a group of protesters in the background. Photo: Citizen TV Kenya | Source: Facebook
After being shot, Rex was rushed to Bliss Hospital along Moi Avenue. Doctors tried to save him, but he did not survive. His passing left many young people hurt and angry, but also united in their demand for justice.
The hearing of the case will continue on September 25. Many Kenyans are watching closely. They want to see if the truth will be fully told and if Rex will finally get justice in a system where many families feel forgotten.