Violence erupts in Nanyuki
Two people were killed in Nanyuki, a town in central Kenya, during protests linked to a proposed US Ebola isolation facility near a military base. The demonstrations turned chaotic as crowds blocked roads, burned tyres, and clashed with security forces. Police used tear gas to disperse protesters.
One victim was a bystander, family says
One of the dead has been identified as 27 year old Charles Mang’aro Mwangi. His family says he was not part of the protest and was simply going about his daily routine when he was shot.
His mother, Joyce Wangari, said he had left to meet a friend after work in the evening. She said he was not carrying anything or involved in any confrontation when the shooting happened. The family also said they have not received official details from authorities.
Second death still unclear
The second victim was taken to hospital by soldiers and was already dead on arrival. Both bodies showed gunshot injuries, but officials have not confirmed how the shootings happened or who was responsible.
Police have said they were not aware of any fatalities when asked by reporters, and no formal statement has clarified the incidents.
Public anger over Ebola facility plan
The protests were triggered by plans to set up a 50 bed Ebola isolation centre at Laikipia Airbase. The facility is expected to treat US citizens affected by an outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo and will be staffed by US medical teams.
Local concern has grown over possible health risks and cross border infection. Kenya has not reported any Ebola cases so far.
Legal challenge halts opening
Kenya’s High Court has temporarily stopped the facility from opening after a rights group filed a case. The petition argued that the project could create serious public health risks.
