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Nakuru-based Kameme TV reporter Catherine Wanjeri yesterday presented more evidence in a case where she has accused the police of unlawfully shooting her.

Among other pieces of evidence, Wanjeri (pictured) submitted a P3 form, a crucial document in such investigations that is filled by a medical doctor who treated her.

Leg operation

The journalist was shot three times in the thigh by a police officer while she and her colleagues were reporting on an anti-government demonstration on a street in Nakuru on July 16.

She was rushed to Valley Hospital and later referred to Nakuru Annex Hospital due to the severity of her injuries. Her leg was subsequently operated on.

Speaking to reporters, Wanjeri said she hoped justice would be served, noting that the shooting was intentional and targeted her though she was clearly identifiable as a reporter.

“There was no way the police would have mistaken me for a protester, as I was among other journalists a distance away. The officer shot me three times and that couldn’t have been a mistake. That is why I am determined to see justice served in this case,” she said.

Changed lifestyle

She also noted that the attack had rendered her unable to perform most of her chores, leaving her dependent on other people, a lifestyle that she is not accustomed to.

“I’m used to working for myself, but today, because of the actions of a careless officer, I can’t walk and work unassisted,”said Wanjeri.

The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) received her and other witnesses at the agency’s Nakuru regional office yesterday. Six other witnesses had recorded their statements.

IPOA Rift Valley regional coordinator Josphat Kaimenyi said the agency had made progress in investigating the case.
“Each day has been a success in this case as more people present statements and evidence. We are still calling on more members of the public who witnessed it to come forward,” he said.

The shooting of Wanjeri and similar incidents in Nairobi during youth protests sparked nationwide protests among journalists, who described the police action as interference with media freedom.

Video footage

Kaimenyi has assured the media fraternity that Wanjeri’s case was being thoroughly investigated.

“We are glad that the police, especially the county police commander Samuel Ndanyi, have been very helpful in the case. The cooperation will help us get to its logical conclusion,” said Kaimenyi.

IPOA has obtained video footage from witnesses and CCTV cameras from buildings near the shooting scene.