Tragedy Strikes in Molo: Community Mourns High School Student Killed in Anti-Government Protests
In a heartbreaking display of grief and outrage, hundreds of mourners gathered in Molo, Kenya, to bid farewell to Master Dennis Njuguna, a high school student whose life was tragically cut short by a police bullet during nationwide anti-government protests on June 25. The 19-year-old student at Njenga Karume Secondary School was laid to rest at his Turi home, surrounded by tears, anger, and calls for justice.
Njuguna’s senseless killing has sparked widespread condemnation, with many questioning the use of excessive force by police during the protests. According to eyewitnesses, Njuguna was shot dead while walking home from school, unaware of the danger that awaited him. His death is one of 19 confirmed fatalities across the country, with three others still nursing injuries in Molo, including a woman who sustained serious injuries.
The protests, which turned violent, were marked by widespread unrest and destruction, including the torching of government offices and property worth millions of shillings. Nairobi Lawyer and former State House Advisor Dann Mwangi, who attended the burial, strongly condemned the police action, saying, "Dennis was tragically shot and killed by a police officer on 25th June 2025 while walking home from school. We strongly condemn this heinous and unjustified use of force on an innocent, unarmed student who was not involved in the protests."
Mwangi also expressed his dismay at the destruction of public property, including the burning of a county fire engine and government offices that served three sub-counties. "It is both unacceptable and self-defeating to destroy resources meant to protect and save lives," he added. The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) and civil society groups have called for an independent inquiry into police conduct during the June 25 protests, while the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has opened investigations into multiple fatalities linked to police action.
As Master Njuguna’s family and community mourn his loss, they are calling for accountability and an end to the cycle of violence that continues to claim innocent lives. The tragic event has sparked a national conversation about police brutality, the right to protest, and the need for justice and accountability. As the people of Molo and Kenya come to terms with this senseless tragedy, one thing is clear: the memory of Master Dennis Njuguna will not be forgotten, and his death will not be in vain.
