Three people sustained gunshot wounds after bodyguards to Mombasa’s Governor Abdulswamad Nassir allegedly opened fire during a public function at Bomu Stadium in Kenya’s Changamawe country on Friday, APA can report on Saturday.
Mombasa County Police Commander Stella Cherono said police were investigating the incident and urged all those having the information to report the police.
“We are investigating a case where three people were shot and injured at Bomu Stadium. We are asking all interested parties to record statements as investigations continue,” Ms Cherono said.
The incident occurred during a public forum for the Mombasa County Revolving Fund’s “Biashara Mtaani” initiative, targeting residents of Changamwe and Jomvu sub-counties.
Cherono said the three youths sustained gunshot wounds and were rushed to a nearby health facility, before some were referred to Coast General Teaching and Referral Hospital for further treatment.
According to witnesses, a group of youths moved towards the governor while chanting Wantam (a corruption of One Term’), prompting his security detail to intervene and fire several shots.
Human rights activist Francis Auma condemned the incident, calling for investigations into the alleged use of firearms against civilians.
He called on the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) to investigate and establish who fired the shots, while urging police to secure evidence and protect witnesses.
“The police moved in and collected a number of used cartridges. One of the youths was shot three times in the leg and was rushed to a nearby hospital before being referred to Coast General Hospital,” he added.
Police said investigations were ongoing to establish what triggered the shooting and identify those responsible.
MG/as/APA