A Kenyan magistrate, Monica Kivuti, was tragically shot and killed in court by a police officer on Thursday. The incident occurred at the Makadara Law Courts in Nairobi, where Ms. Kivuti was presiding over a hearing.
The assailant, who was the husband of a woman facing charges of obtaining money by false pretenses, entered the courtroom through the magistrate's door and opened fire. Ms. Kivuti was shot in the chest and left hip, and succumbed to her injuries.
The police officer's wife had requested release on bail after pleading guilty to the charges. However, Ms. Kivuti denied the request. In retaliation, the officer shot and killed Ms. Kivuti before being fatally shot by another officer present in the courtroom.
Three other officers were injured during the attack. Kenya's chief justice, Martha Koome, expressed her condolences and solidarity with the judiciary family during this difficult time. She called for sensitivity and compassion as everyone grieves the loss of Ms. Kivuti.
8 Comments
MrTony
Rest in peace, Monica Kivuti. Your commitment to justice and fairness will never be forgotten.
ZmeeLove
My thoughts and prayers are with Ms. Kivuti's family and the entire judiciary community. Such a tragic loss.
Muchacho
I commend Chief Justice Martha Koome for her swift response and for standing in solidarity with the judicial family.
Coccinella
This tragedy should serve as a wake-up call for the need for better mental health support for law enforcement officers.
Rotfront
The fact that another officer took down the assailant shows that there are still good people in the force.
Mariposa
Let's remember Ms. Kivuti not for how she died, but for how she lived and fought for justice every day.
Golova Hvosta
It's heartening to see the outpouring of support and condolences for Ms. Kivuti and her loved ones.
Cerebro
I hope that justice is swift and fair in this case, in honor of Ms. Kivuti's memory.