Police who lost both hands narrates his story
Police Officer’s Agony After Tear Gas Explosion
A police officer who lost both arms during anti-Finance Bill protests on Tuesday is recuperating at Nairobi West Hospital. Inspector David Maina, speaking to Citizen TV in high spirits from his hospital bed on Thursday, recounted the horrific incident in Nairobi’s Central Business District (CBD).
Horrific Incident During Protests
Inspector Maina, along with his colleagues, was on duty to ensure order during the ‘Occupy Parliament’ protests. Unexpectedly, he detonated a tear gas canister and delayed releasing it, leading to an explosion in his hands.
A Father’s Struggle
Maina (Police who lost hands) with his wife and Alfred Mutua Minister of tourism and wildlife
Maina, a father of three, has provided for his family through his police service. However, he now faces the challenge of adjusting to life without both forearms. He expressed deep regret, saying the incident had forever altered his life and would be hard for his family, especially his children, to accept. “It was a sad day. We were trying to ensure calmness in Nairobi. It has changed my life a lot because there are many things I won’t be able to do, and I also don’t know what I will tell my kids about this; they will be very shocked,” he recounted.
Medical Challenges Ahead
Medics at the hospital have stated that the injuries he sustained will be life-changing. They mentioned that he might need prosthetic arms to live a somewhat normal life. The hospital’s Chief Doctor, Prakash Sain, said Inspector Maina sustained serious injuries and that no treatment or corrective surgery could restore the damage. “He had lost both his hands. The primary treatment has been done, but with the kind of injury he has, there is no surgery or treatment that can heal him now,” said Dr. Sain.
Another Officer Injured
In addition to Inspector Maina’s serious injuries, another female officer, Constable Mildred Emoit Elisha, lies in the next ward in the same hospital after she suffered wounds to the chest.
Show of Solidarity
Tourism Cabinet Secretary Dr. Alfred Mutua, alongside Nairobi Police Commander Adamson Bungei, visited the officers on Thursday to show solidarity.
Condemnation of Protests
CS Mutua condemned the protests over the Finance Bill, claiming that the protesters had been coerced by civil society groups seeking donor funding. He stated that these groups are now using Generation Z to propagate their agenda. “Out of the protests that have happened, two police officers are in hospital, and not a single demonstrator was injured. Our police have shown their restraint; they have looked and seen these are children who are being used and have not done anything,” said CS Mutua. “These protesters would like to have violence because that is where they eat. They would like to cause some violence ndio waende huko ng’ambo waandike proposal watumiwe pesa wamesota…they are broke. I see these activists in clubs, and they are broke, hawana pesa.”
Reflection on the Incident
Inspector Maina’s ordeal sheds light on the personal sacrifices made by law enforcement officers during civil unrest. While Maina’s focus was on maintaining peace, the unexpected explosion left him grappling with a new reality. His story highlights the risks that officers face daily and the profound impact such incidents can have on their lives and families.
Community Response
The community has responded with an outpouring of support for Inspector Maina and Constable Elisha. Donations and messages of encouragement have flooded in, showing solidarity with the injured officers. Many people have called for increased safety measures for police officers during protests, emphasizing the need for better protective gear and training.
Calls for Accountability
In the wake of this incident, there have been calls for accountability and a thorough investigation into the events that led to the explosion. Some community leaders have questioned the tactics used during the protests and the handling of tear gas canisters. They urge the police force to review its protocols to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Future Outlook for Inspector Maina
Looking ahead, Inspector Maina faces a challenging journey of rehabilitation and adaptation. His determination and the support of his family and community will play crucial roles in his recovery. As he navigates this new chapter, Maina remains hopeful about the possibilities that lie ahead.
The incident involving Inspector Maina is a stark reminder of the dangers faced by law enforcement officers during protests. It underscores the need for comprehensive measures to ensure the safety and well-being of officers while balancing the rights of demonstrators. As Maina and Constable Elisha recover, their stories will continue to resonate, highlighting the human cost of civil unrest and the importance of resilience in the face of adversity.
