Trader in Critical Condition After Being Shot During Nairobi Protests

A trader who sustained a gunshot wound to the head during protests in Nairobi’s Central Business District (CBD) on Tuesday, June 17, is currently in critical condition at Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH), according to a statement released by the hospital on Wednesday.

The patient, who was brought to the facility at 3:16 PM as a referral, was found to be critically ill upon arrival at the Accident and Emergency Department.

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He had suffered a severe brain injury and excessive bleeding from the gunshot wound.

“The emergency care team led by the emergency physician, Dr. Janet Sugut, swung into action, stabilised his condition, and placed him on life support,” read part of the statement signed by KNH Acting CEO Dr. William Sigilai.

A CT scan later revealed that the bullet had struck the left side of his brain. He was taken into the operating theatre at 8:50 PM, where a delicate two-hour surgery was conducted by a multidisciplinary team led by Consultant Neurosurgeon Dr. Sam Njiru.

The bullet was successfully removed, and the patient was moved to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), where he remains on mechanical ventilation.

“While his condition is still critical, he is alive and under close, round-the-clock observation and care by our medical team,” the statement noted.

The hospital reported a total of 16 patients received treatment linked to the protest-related unrest.

These included injuries ranging from gunshot wounds to blunt trauma. Of these, 7 patients required further management and were admitted, 9 were treated and discharged, 2 underwent surgery, and 4 more are scheduled for specialized procedures.

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KNH also noted that one other patient remains unidentified after sustaining a skull fracture, reportedly from an assault.

“We commend the swift actions of first responders and the public who ensured the timely referral of casualties to KNH,” the hospital said, while also applauding its medical staff for their professionalism in handling high-pressure emergencies.