Police regret concert shooting

OMUTHIYA - The police are regretting a shooting incident that happened over the weekend here in which two people were allegedly wounded as Reserve Force members were dispersing a crowd that gathered for a music concert.

Police spokesperson Kauna Shikwambi said while confirming the matter that a case has been opened by the victims, and is being investigated.

She says the ugly confrontation is highly regrettable and was not intentional, but the police had to act to remedy the violent clashes.

“It’s deeply unfortunate that this happened as the police were enforcing law and order,” she said, adding that the officers were also carrying out the nationwide crime resilience operation.

“The officers got a report that there was a concert that was still taking place past curfew time at Kizomba bar. So, the police were dispatched to the place, and when they arrived at the scene, a commotion ensued as the public allegedly started throwing stones and bottles at the officers. Thereafter, they responded by firing warning shots, and successfully managed to disperse the crowd.”

In addition, shortly after the situation was resolved, the police were informed that there were two patients at the hospital who were being treated for gunshot injuries. New Era is informed that one was shot in the arm, and the other in the arm and buttocks.

The event attracted a crowd of about 300, said the police. Only 150 people are allowed at public gatherings.

“The police was also trying to enforce the Covid-19 protocols as the crowd had contravened the curfew regulations. Such incidents can be avoided if the public cooperates with the police whenever we are trying to maintain law and order,” Shikwambi added.